[Campbell Biology P.785] Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between ... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between ectothermic and endothermic reptiles, based on the provided text?

  • A: Ectothermic reptiles primarily regulate body temperature through metabolic activity, while endothermic reptiles absorb external heat.
  • B: An ectothermic reptile can survive on significantly less food energy than an endothermic mammal of the same size.
  • C: All reptiles are strictly ectothermic, whereas birds are exclusively endothermic.
  • D: Lizards basking in the sun is an example of endothermic regulation.

Explanation

The text states that 'an ectothermic reptile can survive on less than 10% of the food energy required by a mammal of the same size,' directly supporting option B. Options A, C, and D contain inaccuracies regarding the definitions and examples of ectothermy and endothermy.