Overview
Fish gills are organs that allow fish to breathe underwater. Most fish exchange gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide using gills on both sides of the pharynx (throat). Gills possess tissues resembling short threads, referred to as gill filaments or lamellae. Each filament contains a capillary network that provides a large surface area for exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide. Other than respiration, these filaments have other functions including the exchange of ions, water, acids, and ammonia.