[Campbell Biology P.936] Which of the following best describes the thermoregulatory behavior... | Practice Question

Which of the following best describes the thermoregulatory behavior of a dragonfly in Figure 40.14?

  • A: It expands its body surface to absorb more heat from the sun.
  • B: It seeks shaded areas to minimize heat gain.
  • C: It orientates its body to expose the narrow tip of its abdomen to the sun, minimizing heat absorption.
  • D: It increases its metabolic rate to generate more internal heat.

Explanation

According to the text and Figure 40.14, a dragonfly adopts an 'obelisk' posture by orienting its body so the narrow tip of its abdomen faces the sun. This minimizes the amount of body surface exposed to the sun, thereby minimizing heat absorption from solar radiation.