What is the name of the sensor that detects changes in oxygen levels in arterial blood?

The sensor that detects changes in oxygen levels in arterial blood is known as a chemoreceptor. Chemoreceptors are specialized sensory receptors that respond to chemical changes in the blood, including the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH. In the context of oxygen levels, the peripheral chemoreceptors, mainly located in the carotid bodies and aortic bodies, play a crucial role in monitoring arterial blood oxygen saturation.

When oxygen levels drop, these chemoreceptors send signals to the respiratory center in the brain to increase the rate and depth of breathing, thereby enhancing oxygen intake. This is vital for maintaining homeostasis and ensuring that the tissues receive adequate oxygen for their metabolic needs.

Baroreceptors, on the other hand, are sensitive to changes in blood pressure, while photoreceptors are involved in detecting light in the eyes. Mechanoreceptors respond to mechanical forces such as pressure, touch, and vibration. Each of these receptors has distinct functions, making the chemoreceptor the appropriate answer to the question regarding the monitoring of oxygen levels in arterial blood.