[Campbell Biology P.790] Which of the following are adaptations that allow the kangaroo rat ... | Practice Question

Which of the following are adaptations that allow the kangaroo rat to survive in an extremely dry habitat, as described in Figure 34.37? Select all that apply

  • A: Having thick, oily skin to limit evaporative water loss.
  • B: Staying in a cool, humid burrow during the day and emerging at night.
  • C: Possessing a small surface area in nasal passages to reduce water reabsorption.
  • D: Obtaining nearly all necessary water from catabolic pathways and food moisture.
  • E: Having a small intestine and kidney that efficiently absorb water from feces and urine.

Explanation

Figure 34.37 details several adaptations of the kangaroo rat for arid environments. These include thick, oily skin 1 to reduce evaporative water loss, staying in a cool, humid burrow during the day 2 , a large surface area in nasal passages to increase water reabsorption 3 , obtaining water from catabolic pathways and food moisture 4 , and efficient water absorption by a large intestine and kidney 5 . Options C and E incorrectly describe these adaptations regarding surface area size and intestine size.