[Campbell Biology P.1026] The wandering albatross Diomedea exulans drinks only seawater but m... | Practice Question

The wandering albatross Diomedea exulans drinks only seawater but maintains its body salts and water in balance. This suggests that the albatross possesses adaptations to:

  • A: Actively transport excess salt into its cells, causing them to swell.
  • B: Minimize water loss through excretion of highly concentrated urine and secrete excess salt.
  • C: Absorb fresh water directly from the air, avoiding the need to process seawater.
  • D: Convert seawater into fresh water internally using specialized enzymes.

Explanation

Marine birds like the albatross face the challenge of ingesting large amounts of salt with seawater. Their adaptations for osmoregulation include highly efficient kidneys that produce very concentrated urine to minimize water loss, and specialized salt glands often located near the eyes or nostrils that excrete excess salt. This allows them to maintain their internal water and salt balance despite consuming saline water.