Question

which of the following adaptations helps alpine animals survive the cold winter?
a. reduced lung size
b. low levels of hemoglobin
c. hibernation
d. large legs, ears, and tails

please select the best answer from the choices provided

○ a
○ b
○ c
○ d

Explanation:

• Option a: Reduced lung size would hinder oxygen intake at high altitudes (alpine regions often have lower oxygen), so it's not a survival adaptation for cold.
• Option b: Low hemoglobin would reduce oxygen - carrying capacity, which is not helpful in alpine environments with potentially low oxygen, and not related to cold survival.
• Option c: Hibernation is a common adaptation where animals lower their metabolic rate to survive long, cold winters with limited food, which is suitable for alpine animals in cold winters.
• Option d: Large legs, ears, and tails would increase surface area, leading to more heat loss, which is not beneficial in cold winters.

Answer:

C. hibernation