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Question #46611
The Question
A K-selected mammalian species endemic to the Arctic strictly adheres to Allen’s Rule. If rapid global warming pushes the ambient temperature consistently above the upper critical limit of this species' thermoneutral zone, which of the following represents the most accurate physiological and ecological consequence?
Options
- A.
The metabolic cost of thermoregulation will decrease as the ambient temperature approaches core body temperature, increasing energy available for reproduction.
- B.
The species' low surface-area-to-volume ratio will impede passive heat dissipation, causing a spike in metabolic rate for active cooling and reducing reproductive energy budgets.
- C.
The population will immediately undergo directional selection to decrease their surface-area-to-volume ratio, thereby restoring optimal foraging efficiency.
- D.
The Q10 temperature coefficient will induce a state of aestivation, lowering the basal metabolic rate and temporarily increasing the carrying capacity (K) of the habitat.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Pioneer Species|Lichens|Facilitation Model
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often harbor the misconception that warming environments strictly relieve metabolic stress for cold-adapted animals.
They fail to recognize that thermoregulation is a two-way street: active cooling requires significant ATP expenditure.
Furthermore, this question tests the mathematical direction of the SA:V ratio trap—cold adaptation equals a LOW ratio, which becomes a severe liability when heat dissipation is required.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Organisms and Populations - Class 12 |
| Concept | Biotic Interactions - Positive/Negative sign matrix |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |