How does secreting oil onto their fur help otters maintain homeostasis?

• A. It enhances their sense of smell for finding food.
• B. It increases the absorption of sunlight for vitamin D synthesis.
• C. It repels parasites and prevents infections.
• D. It creates a waterproof barrier that reduces heat loss in cold water.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of homeostasis: Homeostasis refers to the ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. For otters, maintaining body temperature in cold water is a critical aspect of homeostasis.
2. Recognize the role of fur and oil secretion: Otters secrete oil onto their fur to create a waterproof barrier. This barrier prevents water from directly contacting their skin, which helps reduce heat loss in cold environments.
3. Analyze the importance of reducing heat loss: Water conducts heat away from the body much faster than air. By keeping their fur waterproof, otters minimize the amount of heat lost to the surrounding cold water, helping them maintain their body temperature.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Enhancing the sense of smell, increasing sunlight absorption for vitamin D synthesis, and repelling parasites are not directly related to maintaining body temperature or homeostasis in cold water.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: The secretion of oil onto their fur helps otters maintain homeostasis by creating a waterproof barrier that reduces heat loss in cold water, ensuring their internal temperature remains stable.