Unit 2 - Metabolism and Survival (Metabolism and Adverse Conditions)

Question 1

How do some organisms survive adverse conditions.

Answer 1

Some organisms survive adverse conditions by dormancy.

Question 2

What is dormancy?

Answer 2

Dormancy is a period when an organism’s metabolic activity decreases and allows for the conservation of energy.

Question 3

What are the two types of dormancy?

Answer 3

• Predictive: occurs before the onset of adverse conditions. (hibernation during winter months).
• Consequential: occurs after the onset of adverse conditions (sudden drought).

Question 4

What happens during dormant periods within the organism?

Answer 4

There is a decrease in:
- Metabolic rate
- Heart rate
- Breathing rate
- Body temperature

Question 5

What is hibernation versus aestivation?

Answer 5

Hibernation is where mammals survive during winter/low temperatures (predictive) whereas aestivation is where mammals survive in periods of high temperatures or drought (consequential).

Question 6

What is daily torpor?

Answer 6

Daily torpor is a period of reduced activity in some animals with high metabolic rates.

Question 7

What is migration?

Answer 7

Migration can be used to avoid adverse conditions and therefore avoid metabolic adversity. This involves expending energy to relocate to an environment that is more suitable. Migratory behaviour can be innate or learned.

Question 8

Which specialised techniques can be used to track migration?

Answer 8

• Satellite tracking
• Leg rings