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A small Australian mammal that lives in the alpine regions of New South Wales has specific features that enable it to retain body heat - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2003 - Paper 1
Question 3
A small Australian mammal that lives in the alpine regions of New South Wales has specific features that enable it to retain body heat. Identify the features that ar... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A small Australian mammal that lives in the alpine regions of New South Wales has specific features that enable it to retain body heat - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2003 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the key characteristics for heat retention
Answer
In alpine regions where temperatures can be significantly cold, mammals must have physical features that help minimize heat loss. Typically, features such as shorter ears and a rounded body are advantageous for retaining body heat.
Step 2
Assess each option based on heat retention features
Answer
Looking at the options provided:
- (A) Long ears, rounded body, long legs: Long ears allow for more heat loss, making this option less favorable.
- (B) Short ears, rounded body, short legs: This option presents short ears and a rounded body, which are ideal for heat retention, although short legs may limit mobility.
- (C) Short ears, slender body, long legs: While short ears are good, a slender body would not help with heat retention as much as a rounded body does.
- (D) Short ears, slender body, short legs: This option has short ears, but the slender body is less effective for heat retention.
Comparing these features, option (B) stands out as the most suitable for retaining body heat.
Step 3