The complex, multicameral lungs of the Nile crocodile are characterized by rows of tubular chambers, which in cranial and ventral lung regions are broad and sac-like. The inner surface of the chambers is enhanced by cubicles (ediculae), the capillary-bearing walls of which are often perforated. Extrabronchial communication among chambers is infrequent. The ediculae end in a network of myoelastic trabeculae, which face the central lumen of the chambers. The trabecular epithelium is similar to that of mammalian bronchi and contains isolated endocrine-like cells basally, whereas the edicular epithelium is similar to that of other reptiles and of mammals. The distribution of non-vascular smooth muscle, 64% in trabeculae and 36% in interedicular walls, is consistent with the hypothesis that these two antagonistically oriented muscle groups interact to effect lung patency. The volume-specific lung compliance is similar to that of much simpler, unicameral gekko lungs, implying that lung compliance is a function of parenchymal structure and not of primary structural type.
Functional Morphology of the Lungs of the Nile Crocodile, Crocodylus Niloticus: Non-Respiratory Parameters
STEVEN F. PERRY; Functional Morphology of the Lungs of the Nile Crocodile, Crocodylus Niloticus: Non-Respiratory Parameters. J Exp Biol 1 January 1988; 134 (1): 99–117. doi: https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.134.1.99
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