Neural Control of Heartbeat and Respiration in Crustaceans and Insects

Crustaceans and insects, having evolved from a common ancestor, developed distinct respiratory and circulatory systems as they adapted to various habitats throughout their evolutionary history. Crustaceans, which breathe through gills, use their circulatory system to supply oxygen to the entire body, similar to us vertebrates. In contrast, insects, having evolved the tracheal system, have freed their circulatory system from the role of oxygen transport, allowing it to regulate hemolymph pressure and distribute body heat. This post describes how the rhythmic muscular movements involved in respiration and circulation are produced, controlled, and coordinated in these two groups of animals.