Hibernation is _.
a.
an example of an abiotic cycle
b.
triggered by changes in the weather
c.
caused only by biotic factors
d.
triggered by breeding patterns
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
b. triggered by changes in the weather
Explanation:
Hibernation is a physiological state of dormancy that animals enter to conserve energy during periods of extreme environmental conditions, typically cold temperatures or food scarcity. This behavior is primarily triggered by environmental cues, such as changes in weather patterns, daylight duration, and temperature drops. These factors signal the approach of winter, prompting animals to prepare by reducing metabolic rates, lowering body temperatures, and slowing other bodily functions.
Why not the other options?
- a. an example of an abiotic cycle:
Hibernation is not an abiotic cycle. Abiotic cycles, like the water or carbon cycle, involve non-living components of the environment. Hibernation, in contrast, is a biological behavior exhibited by living organisms. - c. caused only by biotic factors:
While biotic factors like food availability (predator-prey relationships) may play a role, they are not the sole cause of hibernation. Abiotic factors like temperature and seasonal changes are primary triggers. - d. triggered by breeding patterns:
Breeding patterns are separate from hibernation. While some animals may coordinate their reproductive cycles with seasonal changes, hibernation itself is unrelated to breeding.
How animals prepare for hibernation:
- Physiological Changes: Before hibernating, animals accumulate fat reserves to sustain them through the dormancy period.
- Behavioral Changes: Animals often build or seek shelters, such as dens or burrows, to stay protected.
- Internal Mechanisms: Hibernating animals experience a significant drop in heart rate, breathing rate, and energy expenditure to survive prolonged inactivity.
Examples of Animals:
- Bears enter a state of torpor (a lighter form of hibernation).
- Small mammals like squirrels and hedgehogs fully hibernate.
- Amphibians and reptiles also hibernate by burying themselves in soil or underwater to avoid freezing temperatures.
This survival strategy ensures species’ resilience in challenging environments.