Problem 9 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

Which best exemplifies ectothermy? a. The metabolic rate increases as the temperature decreases. b. Body temperature remains constant when environmental temperatures change. C. Food demand increases when temperatures drop. d. Virtually all invertebrate groups are ectotherms. No vertebrate groups are ectotherms.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The statement 'Virtually all invertebrate groups are ectotherms' is the part of the answer that best exemplifies ectothermy. The second part of this option contains incorrect information.

Step 1: Understanding Definition of Ectothermy

Firstly, it is important to get a good understanding of ectothermy. Ectotherms are sometimes referred to as 'cold-blooded' animals. Their body temperatures change with the environment, which means they don't typically produce their own heat.

Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We go through the options given: \n\nOption a) This suggests that the metabolic rate increases as the temperature decreases. Based on the definition of ectotherms, their metabolic rate may decrease during colder weather as they slow down to conserve energy, so this is not likely correct. \n\nOption b) This suggests a body temperature that remains constant when environmental temperatures change. This is more representative of endotherms (like humans), not ectotherms. \n\nOption c) This suggests that food demand increases when temperatures drop which does not accurately represent ectotherms. \n\nOption d) This suggests that all invertebrates are ectotherms and no vertebrates are ectotherms. There are indeed many invertebrate groups that are ectothermic, but the second part of the statement is false. Many fish, reptiles, and amphibians - vertebrates - are ectotherms.

Step 3: Identifying the Correct Statement

Upon analyzing these statements, the statement that all invertebrates are ectotherms (ignoring the second part of the statement) correctly embodies the concept of ectothermy.