Question

Which of these is NOT an example of how an animal stays cooler on a hot day:

Select one:
a. A Turkey Vulture excreting on its legs
b. A Tiger Beetle raising itself higher off sand by stilting its legs
c. A dragonfly shunting more blood into its abdomen
d. An Arctic Fox keeping its mouth closed to retain moisture
e. A Mourning Dove allowing its body temperature to rise to a hyperthermic level

Answer 1

The incorrect example is 'd. An Arctic Fox keeping its mouth closed to retain moisture,' as this behavior aims to conserve body heat and moisture, not to cool down like the ectothermic behaviors described in the other examples.

Step-by-step explanation:

The example that is NOT an illustration of how an animal stays cooler on a hot day is 'd. An Arctic Fox keeping its mouth closed to retain moisture'. To elaborate, endothermic animals like the Arctic Fox use insulation such as fur to conserve heat in cold environments and typically do not need to employ methods to cool down, except perhaps in unusually warm conditions for their habitat. In contrast, ectothermic animals, which have variable body temperatures, employ a range of behaviors to manage their body temperatures, such as seeking shade or water to cool down. Unlike the tiger beetle or the Mourning Dove, which actively engage in behaviors to prevent overheating, the Arctic Fox is more concerned with retaining heat and moisture.

Mammals have a residual effect from shivering and increased muscle activity: arrector pili muscles cause 'goose bumps,' causing small hairs to stand up when the individual is cold. This has the intended effect of increasing body temperature. Mammals use layers of fat to achieve the same end. Therefore, an Arctic Fox closing its mouth is not likely attempting to cool down, but rather to conserve body heat and moisture.