Problem 6 - Biology

Question

What term describes the condition of a desert mouse that lowers its metabolic rate and "sleeps" during the hot day? a. turgid b. hibernation c. estivation d. normal sleep pattern

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct term is 'estivation'.

Step 1: Understand the question

Identify that the question is asking for a term that describes a specific physiological condition of a desert mouse during hot days.

Step 2: Identify the keywords

The key parts of the question are 'desert mouse', 'lowers its metabolic rate', 'sleeps', and 'during the hot day'.

Step 3: Analyze each option

Evaluate each provided answer (a. turgid, b. hibernation, c. estivation, d. normal sleep pattern) to determine which best fits the condition described.

Step 4: Option interpretation: Turgid

'Turgid' refers to being swollen and distended or congested, which does not describe the condition of lowering metabolic rate and sleeping during the day.

Step 5: Option interpretation: Hibernation

'Hibernation' refers to a state of inactivity and metabolic depression during winter, not specifically related to the hot conditions in deserts.

Step 6: Option interpretation: Estivation

'Estivation' is a state of dormancy, similar to hibernation, but it occurs during hot and dry periods, which matches the condition of the desert mouse.

Step 7: Option interpretation: Normal sleep pattern

'Normal sleep pattern' does not specifically describe the physiological adaptation to hot conditions by lowering metabolic rate.

Step 8: Conclusion

'Estivation' is the correct term because it accurately describes the lowered metabolic rate and dormancy during hot periods typical of desert conditions.

Key Concepts

Physiological Adaptation

Physiological adaptations are internal processes that organisms develop to survive in their environment. For desert mice, these adaptations include estivation, metabolic rate reduction, and water conservation mechanisms. Such adaptations allow them to maintain homeostasis despite extreme conditions. Physiological changes associated with estivation might include:

• A reduced need for food and water
• Adjusted kidney function to concentrate urine and retain water
• Insulating body fat storage

These adaptations ensure that desert mice can thrive despite the challenging conditions of their habitat.