Which of the following is an advantage that ectotherms have over endotherms of the same size?
a. They require much less food.
b. They are less vulnerable to predation during cold weather.
c. They can remain active in cold weather or on cold nights.
d. They have higher metabolic rates and grow more quickly.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between ectotherms and endotherms: Ectotherms rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature, while endotherms generate heat internally to maintain a constant body temperature.
2. Consider the energy requirements: Ectotherms generally require less energy because they do not need to maintain a constant internal temperature, which means they need less food compared to endotherms.
3. Evaluate the options given: Option a states that ectotherms require much less food, which aligns with the understanding that ectotherms have lower energy requirements.
4. Analyze the other options: Option b suggests ectotherms are less vulnerable to predation during cold weather, which is not typically true as they are less active in cold conditions. Option c suggests they can remain active in cold weather, which is contrary to their nature. Option d suggests higher metabolic rates, which is characteristic of endotherms, not ectotherms.
5. Conclude which option is correct based on the analysis: The advantage of requiring less food due to lower energy needs is a key benefit for ectotherms over endotherms of the same size.

Key Concepts

Ectotherms vs. Endotherms

Ectotherms are organisms that rely on external environmental heat sources to regulate their body temperature, unlike endotherms, which generate heat metabolically. This distinction affects their energy requirements, behavior, and ecological niches. Ectotherms typically need less food than endotherms because they do not expend energy to maintain a constant body temperature.

Metabolic Rate

Metabolic rate refers to the rate at which an organism converts energy from food into energy for biological processes. Endotherms generally have higher metabolic rates than ectotherms, allowing them to maintain stable body temperatures and remain active in various environmental conditions. However, this also means they require more food to sustain their energy needs.

Adaptations to Temperature

Ectotherms have adaptations that allow them to survive in environments with fluctuating temperatures, such as behavioral strategies like basking in the sun to increase body temperature. In contrast, endotherms can remain active in cold conditions due to their ability to internally regulate temperature, but this comes at the cost of higher energy consumption.