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Question #45202
The Question
A mammalian species endemic to a polar region exhibits morphological traits strictly adhering to Allen's Rule. If rapid anthropogenic global warming causes a sudden upward shift in the thermal profile of its niche, which of the following represents the most immediate physiological liability for this species?
Options
- A.
Excessive radiative heat gain due to an inherently high surface area-to-volume ratio.
- B.
Inability to adequately dissipate metabolic heat due to a low surface area-to-volume ratio, leading to hyperthermia.
- C.
Increased evaporative water loss from expanded extremities, leading to severe dehydration.
- D.
Failure to maintain core body temperature due to enhanced convective heat loss.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Homeostasis|Endothermy|Ecological Fitness
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize 'Allen's Rule = short limbs in cold' without grasping the underlying biophysics (Surface Area to Volume ratio).
This question tests the maladaptive consequence of a low SA/V ratio when the thermal niche rapidly shifts.
The common misconception is failing to recognize that adaptations for heat retention become fatal 'evolutionary traps' (causing hyperthermia) when environmental temperatures rise faster than evolutionary adaptation can occur.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Organisms and Populations - Class 12 |
| Concept | Population Growth Model Dynamics |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |