Use the figure to answer the following question.

The countercurrent arrangement of blood vessels is an adaptation that allows the goose to ________.
A) minimize heat exchange between the feet and water
B) generate heat using shivering thermogenesis
C) more effectively cool off in the summer
D) conserve heat in its core when the goose is swimming in cold water

Question

Use the figure to answer the following question.

The countercurrent arrangement of blood vessels is an adaptation that allows the goose to ________.
A) minimize heat exchange between the feet and water 
B) generate heat using shivering thermogenesis 
C) more effectively cool off in the summer 
D) conserve heat in its core when the goose is swimming in cold water

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The countercurrent arrangement of blood vessels in the goose's feet allows it to conserve heat in its core when swimming in cold water. This is because the warm arterial blood flowing to the feet transfers its heat to the cold venous blood returning from the feet, which helps maintain the core body temperature.

Use the Figure to Answer the Following Question