Organisms maintain dynamic homeostasis through behavioral and physiological mechanisms. Which of the following statements is an accurate explanation of a negative feedback mechanism used by animals to regulate body temperature?
A) Squirrels are able to cool themselves during warmer months by producing more brown fat, which contains abundant mitochondria and a rich blood supply.
B) Desert jackrabbits have unusually large ears that serve as solar heat collectors to enable them to maintain their body temperatures.
C) A ground squirrel's hypothalamus detects changes in environmental temperatures and responds by activating or suppressing metabolic heat production.
D) A goldfish slows its movements when the water temperature is lower.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A negative feedback mechanism involves the detection of a change in a variable (in this case, body temperature) and the activation of a response that counteracts the initial change. In the case of a ground squirrel, its hypothalamus, which acts as the body's thermostat, detects changes in environmental temperatures and responds by activating or suppressing metabolic heat production to maintain a constant body temperature. This process illustrates a negative feedback mechanism commonly used by animals to regulate body temperature. Choices A, B, and D do not accurately explain a negative feedback mechanism for regulating body temperature.

Organisms Maintain Dynamic Homeostasis Through Behavioral and Physiological Mechanisms