Organisms maintain dynamic homeostasis through behavioural 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) Possums 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

Ground squirrels use a negative feedback mechanism to regulate their body temperature. When their hypothalamus detects changes in environmental temperature, it responds by activating or suppressing metabolic heat production. This keeps their body temperature within a narrow range despite external changes. Options A, B, and D do not accurately describe a negative feedback mechanism for regulating body temperature.

Organisms Maintain Dynamic Homeostasis Through Behavioural and Physiological Mechanisms