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Question #45206
The Question
A transgenic Arctic fox is genetically modified to overexpress a gene that drastically increases its basal metabolic rate (BMR). While its internal metabolic hardware is now 'warm-adapted', its phenotypic appendages remain naturally 'cold-adapted'. Based on the principles of physiological ecology, what is the most likely consequence of this modification?
Options
- A.
It will suffer from hypothermia as the increased BMR rapidly depletes its brown fat reserves, conflicting with Bergmann’s rule.
- B.
It will suffer from hyperthermia because its low surface-area-to-volume ratio prevents adequate dissipation of excess metabolic heat, conflicting with Allen’s rule.
- C.
It will exhibit enhanced survival in polar regions as the increased thermogenesis perfectly complements its high surface-area-to-volume ratio.
- D.
It will undergo aestivation to lower its BMR, as its short appendages facilitate rapid heat loss, conflicting with Allen's rule.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Metabolic Flux|Trophic Efficiency|Bergmann’s Rule
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize Allen's rule purely as 'cold climate = short ears' without understanding the underlying biophysics (Surface-Area-to-Volume ratio).
The trap is assuming a cold-climate animal will always benefit from more internal heat (high BMR), failing to realize that their bodies are physically designed to trap heat.
Superimposing a high BMR on a body that cannot dissipate heat leads to a lethal physiological mismatch (hyperthermia).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Organisms and Populations - Class 12 |
| Concept | Allen’s Rule and Surface-to-Volume Ratio |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |