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Reptiles versus Mammals, how do they differ?

a) Reptiles are endothermic, mammals are ectothermic
b) Reptiles are homodonts, mammals are heterodonts
c) Reptiles only stay with their young for a couple of weeks
d) all of the above are true

User Tessein
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Reptiles are typically ectothermic and regulate their body temperature through behavior, whereas mammals are endothermic, generating their own heat. Additionally, reptiles have homodont dentition, while mammals have heterodont dentition.

Step-by-step explanation:

Reptiles and mammals differ in several key aspects:

  • Thermoregulation: Reptiles are typically ectotherms, which means their body temperature is determined by external environmental conditions. They may bask in the sun to absorb heat or seek shade to cool down. This is contrasted with mammals, which are endotherms, regulating their body temperature from internal metabolic processes.
  • Dental structure: Reptiles are generally homodonts, having teeth that are all the same shape, while mammals are heterodonts, having different types of teeth (incisors, canines, premolars, and molars) adapted for various functions.

It's worth noting that parental care varies across reptile species, and some may indeed stay with their young for only short periods, but this is not a uniform characteristic distinguishing them from mammals.

The correct choice from the options given is: 'b) Reptiles are homodonts, mammals are heterodonts'.

User Pjozsef
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