Morphological Investigation of Uncharacterised Cardiovascular Structures in Shallow-Diving, Semi-Aquatic Freshwater Turtles (Chelidae: Emydura macquarii)

Reptiles with diving capabilities have evolved physiological adaptations as well as conformational changes to temporarily sustain life underwater. Despite the importance of both respiratory and cardiovascular systems during diving, most studies have focused on respiratory adaptations. Thus, characterisation of previously undescribed cardiovascular anatomical variations in diving vertebrates is of broad interest. Thirteen clinically healthy, free-ranging adult female Murray River turtles (Chelidae: Emydura macquarii) were collected for research purposes, euthanised and autopsied. Prominent, valve-like structures, comprised exclusively of smooth muscle myocytes, were identified in medium- and large-calibre muscular arteries of all individuals. Additionally, multiple intramural vascular channels, mimicking post-thrombotic recanalization, were observed within medium-calibre muscular arteries. Further, we confirmed the presence of alpha-smooth-muscle actin-positive cells lining the cardiac atria in E. macquarii. Quantitative morphometric analyses demonstrated that the valve-like structures frequently occupied a substantial proportion of the vascular lumen, in some cases exceeding 90% luminal narrowing. Their consistent presence across multiple individuals and organ systems supports the interpretation that these are physiological vascular structures rather than artefacts. This study examines the potential physiological and evolutionary roles of these vascular structures, providing a basis for further research into cardiovascular adaptations in vertebrates subjected to postural changes and diving-related haemodynamic challenges.