The Panting Responses That are Observed in Overheated Birds and Mammals

Question

The panting responses that are observed in overheated birds and mammals dissipates excess heat by
A) countercurrent exchange.
B) acclimation.
C) vasoconstriction.
D) hibernation.
E) evaporation.

Accepted Answer

Panting responses in overheated birds and mammals involve rapid breathing and evaporation of water from the respiratory surfaces, which helps to dissipate excess heat. This is a form of evaporative cooling, which is very effective in reducing body temperature. Countercurrent exchange involves the transfer of heat and solutes between fluids flowing in opposite directions, and is not typically involved in panting responses. Acclimation refers to the physiological changes that occur in response to prolonged exposure to a particular environmental condition, but does not directly relate to panting. Vasoconstriction involves the narrowing of blood vessels, which can help regulate blood flow and heat transfer, but is not directly involved in panting. Hibernation refers to a state of reduced metabolic activity and lowered body temperature in some animals during the winter, and is not relevant to panting responses.