Soma is able to absorb the oxygen from the air, therefore he can cause people to suffocate in enclosed rooms. Using this ability he doesn't need any specific breathing movements or use of his lungs to get oxygen, as he can absorb it into his body through his skin. He can store this oxygen in order to survive underwater or in low oxygen pressures for a while, but he cannot do so indefinately since the oxygen would eventually run out. However, he can remain underwater for longer than humanly possible.