Question

According to Allen's rule, mammals in colder climates generally have:

• A. Shorter limbs and body appendages
• B. Longer limbs and body appendages
• C. Smaller body size
• D. All organs and appendages of equal size

Hint:

Allen's rule: Animals in colder climates have shorter appendages to conserve heat, while in warmer climates they have longer appendages to release heat.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Allen's rule.
Allen's rule states that animals living in colder climates have shorter limbs and appendages to minimize heat loss, while animals in warmer climates have longer limbs and appendages to facilitate heat dissipation.

Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) Shorter limbs and body appendages: Correct, as this minimizes the surface area for heat loss in cold regions.
- (B) Longer limbs and body appendages: True for hot climates, not cold climates.
- (C) Smaller body size: This relates more to Bergmann's rule, not Allen's rule.
- (D) All organs and appendages of equal size: Not related to Allen's rule.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) Shorter limbs and body appendages, as per Allen's rule.