Final answer:
The correct term for animals active during the day (diurnal) or at irregular intervals throughout the day and night (cathemeral) is 'cathemeral,' which is not listed in the options provided. The provided options relate to other specific animal activity patterns which are part of their circadian rhythms. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to animals that are active during the day or at irregular intervals throughout the day and night is cathemeral. Option a. Nocturnal refers to animals that are primarily active during the night, like bats and foxes.
Option b. Crepuscular describes animals that are active during twilight hours, such as dawn or dusk. Option c. Matutinal is not a commonly used term in this context, and option d. Crephemeral is not a recognized term in animal behavior.
Animals exhibit different activity patterns such as diurnal, nocturnal, and cathemeral, which are part of their circadian rhythms. These patterns can affect various behaviors including sleep cycles, feeding, and other biological functions. The biological clock, which is influenced by the amount of light, regulates these circadian rhythms. The correct option is c.