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Question #46884
The Question
Which of the following statements regarding the respiratory and buoyancy adaptations across different animal taxa is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The maximum body size of terrestrial insects is evolutionarily constrained by the diffusion kinetics of their tracheal system, unlike the perfusion-limited gill system of fishes.
- B.
The energy cost of active ventilation is significantly higher in fishes than in insects due to the higher density and lower O2 solubility of water compared to air.
- C.
To maintain a steep partial pressure gradient for counter-current exchange, both Chondrichthyes and Osteichthyes utilize an operculum to actively pump water over their gills.
- D.
While Osteichthyes regulate buoyancy using a gaseous swim bladder, Chondrichthyes lack this structure and must swim constantly to avoid sinking.
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
Cockroach Respiratory Tracheal System|Partial Pressure Gradient Logic|Chondrichthyes vs. Osteichthyes Buoyancy
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize the advanced physiological concept that 'gills utilize counter-current exchange to maintain a steep partial pressure gradient' but fail to integrate it with basic taxonomic structural constraints.
The trap relies on functional overlap—assuming all fish actively pump water the exact same way using an operculum, masking the fundamental NCERT fact that Chondrichthyes lack an operculum.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Structural Organisation in Animals - Class 11 |
| Concept | Cockroach Respiratory Tracheal System |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |