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Multiple Choice
According to Bergmann's rule, as average environmental temperature decreases, which of the following is most likely to occur in endothermic animal populations?
A
Average body size decreases
B
Body size remains unchanged
C
Average body size increases
D
Body size becomes more variable
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand Bergmann's rule: Bergmann's rule states that within a species or closely related species, individuals in colder climates tend to have larger body sizes compared to those in warmer climates. This is because larger bodies have a smaller surface area-to-volume ratio, which helps conserve heat in cold environments.
Identify the relationship between body size and heat conservation: Larger animals lose heat more slowly due to their reduced surface area relative to their volume. This adaptation is beneficial in colder climates where heat retention is crucial for survival.
Analyze the environmental factor: The problem specifies a decrease in average environmental temperature. According to Bergmann's rule, this would favor larger body sizes in endothermic (warm-blooded) animals to better conserve heat.
Evaluate the options provided: The correct answer aligns with Bergmann's rule, which predicts that average body size increases as environmental temperature decreases. The other options (average body size decreases, body size remains unchanged, or body size becomes more variable) do not align with the principle of heat conservation in colder climates.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on Bergmann's rule and the relationship between body size and heat conservation, the most likely outcome in endothermic animal populations experiencing colder temperatures is an increase in average body size.