Which type of blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to body cells?

Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, play a crucial role in the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Their primary function is to carry oxygen from the lungs, where it is absorbed, to the tissues and cells where it is needed. This process is facilitated by hemoglobin, a protein contained in red blood cells that binds to oxygen molecules.

Each red blood cell is specially designed for this function; they have a unique biconcave shape that increases their surface area, enhancing their ability to absorb and release oxygen efficiently. The high concentration of hemoglobin within these cells allows them to pick up oxygen in the lungs and transport it effectively to the organs and muscles.

Understanding the role of red blood cells is essential in veterinary medicine, as their function is vital for the overall health and performance of animals. When considering the other types of blood cells mentioned, white blood cells are primarily involved in immune responses, platelets are crucial for blood clotting, and plasma cells are a type of immune cell that produces antibodies, none of which have a direct role in oxygen transport.