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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a common adaptation that helps animals in the taiga survive the extreme cold of winter?
A
Becoming cold-blooded to match the environment
B
Shedding all body hair to reduce heat loss
C
Developing thick fur or insulating layers of fat
D
Increasing water loss through sweating
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the taiga biome: The taiga, also known as the boreal forest, is characterized by long, harsh winters with extremely cold temperatures. Animals living in this environment must adapt to survive these conditions.
Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each adaptation to determine if it would help animals survive the cold. For example, becoming cold-blooded would not be beneficial in a cold environment, as cold-blooded animals rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature.
Consider the role of insulation: Thick fur and insulating layers of fat are common adaptations in cold environments. These features help animals retain body heat and protect against the cold.
Eliminate incorrect options: Shedding body hair would increase heat loss, which is counterproductive in a cold environment. Similarly, increasing water loss through sweating would not help conserve heat and could lead to dehydration.
Conclude with the correct adaptation: Developing thick fur or insulating layers of fat is the most effective adaptation for animals in the taiga to survive the extreme cold of winter.