For what kind of external environment is a saltwater fish adapted? (1 point)
( hypotonic environment
osmotonic environment
() isotonic environment
( typertonic environment
osmotonic environment
A saltwater fish is adapted for a hypertonic environment.
To determine the kind of external environment that a saltwater fish is adapted to, we need to understand how osmosis and osmotic pressure work.
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. Solute refers to particles such as salt or other dissolved substances.
In a hypotonic environment, the concentration of solutes outside the fish's body is lower than inside, causing water to rush into the fish's body. This can result in the fish taking in excess water, which can lead to cell damage.
In an osmotonic environment, the concentration of solutes is equal inside and outside the fish's body. This situation is ideal because it maintains the balance of water uptake and loss, ensuring normal cell function.
In an isotonic environment, there is no net movement of water across the fish's body because the concentration of solutes is the same inside and outside. This condition is suitable for saltwater fish as it prevents excessive water uptake or loss and helps maintain osmotic balance.
In a hypertonic environment, the concentration of solutes outside the fish's body is higher than inside. This causes water to move out of the fish's body, leading to dehydration and potential cell damage.
Based on these explanations, we can conclude that a saltwater fish is adapted to an isotonic environment.