Snake breathing mechanism

Snakes have a unique respiratory system that allows them to breathe in a highly efficient manner. Unlike mammals, which have a diaphragm muscle that expands and contracts the lungs, snakes have a series of muscles that run along the sides of their body and compress their lungs, allowing them to exhale.

Snakes breathe through their nostrils, which are located at the tip of their snout. As they inhale, air flows through the nostrils and into the trachea, which is a tube that leads to the lungs. The trachea is supported by a series of cartilage rings, which prevent it from collapsing when the snake exhales.

Once the air reaches the lungs, it is distributed throughout the snake's body by a system of air sacs. These air sacs act like bellows, pumping air in and out of the lungs, which allows the snake to breathe even when its body is in a tightly coiled position.

Snakes are also able to hold their breath for extended periods of time, which is useful when they are underwater or when they are stalking prey. Some species of snakes can hold their breath for up to an hour or more.