An ectotherm is more likely to survive an extended period of food deprivation than would an equally-sized endotherm because
A)the ectotherm maintains a higher basal metabolic rate.
B)the ectotherm expends more energy/kg body weight than the endotherm.
C)the ectotherm invests little energy in temperature regulation.
D)the ectotherm metabolizes its stored energy more readily than can the endotherm.
E)the ectotherm has greater insulation on its body surface.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ectotherms have lower metabolic rates and invest little energy in temperature regulation, meaning they can survive on less food. Endotherms, on the other hand, have higher metabolic rates and use more energy to regulate their body temperature, meaning they require more food to survive. Therefore, an ectotherm is more likely to survive an extended period of food deprivation.

An Ectotherm Is More Likely to Survive an Extended Period