Animal Form and Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to animal form and function, including adaptations, tissue types, metabolic processes, and homeostasis.

What is adaptation in the context of animal physiology?

An adaptation is an anatomical, physiological, or behavioral attribute of a species that equips it to survive and reproduce in its habitat.

What are tradeoffs in animal adaptations?

Tradeoffs are compromises between adaptations, involving costs associated with becoming proficient at something.

What are the four basic post-embryonic tissue types in animals?

The four basic tissue types are connective, epithelial, nervous, and muscle.

What is histology?

Histology is the study of tissues.

How does nervous tissue function in the body?

Nervous tissue transmits electrical signals for information processing, rapid communication, and regulates physiology.

What are the three types of muscle tissue?

The three types of muscle tissue are skeletal, cardiac, and smooth.

What are the main functions of epithelial tissue?

Epithelial tissue functions in protection, absorption, and secretion.

What is the function of connective tissue?

Connective tissue connects, supports, protects, fills spaces, and cushions other tissues.

What is metabolism in biological terms?

Metabolism is the sum of biochemical reactions in an organism that utilize energy from ATP.

What is the difference between basal metabolic rate and resting metabolic rate?

Basal metabolic rate refers to basic functions for life during sleep, while resting metabolic rate refers to metabolic activity at rest and fasted.

How does body size influence metabolic rate?

Larger animals typically have a higher overall basal metabolic rate but a lower mass-specific basal metabolic rate.

What adaptations can increase surface area in organisms?

Adaptations to increase surface area include flattening, folding, and branching.

What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis is the maintenance of physical and chemical states within an appropriate range.

What is the difference between endothermy and ectothermy?

Endothermy refers to animals that generate heat from metabolic activity, whereas ectothermy refers to animals that rely on external heat sources.

How does countercurrent heat transfer work?

Countercurrent heat transfer involves arteries carrying warm blood to extremities and veins carrying cool blood back to the core, reducing heat loss.