Question

These macaques (Macaca fuscata) are partially immersed in a hot spring in a snowy region of Japan. What are some ways that form, function, and behavior contribute to homeostasis for these animals?

Short answer

Form: The macaques have thick fur on their body. They thrive in cold conditions due to the insulation provided by the coat.

Function: The macaques are endotherms; thus, they are capable of thermoregulation, a homeostasis mechanism generated by the metabolic process.

Behavioral contribution: The behavioral adaptation in macaque is taking advantage of hot springs. The warm water comforts the animal by preventing heat loss from the body.

Step-by-step solution

Thermoregulation

The maintenance of body temperature without depending on external temperature is called thermoregulation. It is one of the homeostasis mechanisms found in mammals or endotherms.

Stable internal temperature is constantly regulated in the body through the feedback mechanism of homeostasis.

Structural adaptation of macaques

The macaques found in snowy regions of Japan have thick fur and a relatively bulkier body than the usual macaques. The presence of thick hair keeps the body warm and provides insulation. Thus, heat loss forms the body is reduced.

The bulkier body comprises fat and helps to increase the metabolic rate during cold weather.

Functional adaptation of macaques

Macaques are endotherms; thus, they can regulate the body temperature through homeostasis. When the temperature of the surrounding environment decreases, the receptor cells receive the signal, brain commands to increase the metabolism rate in the body.

Thereby, the body’s internal temperature increases. This mechanism is called thermoregulation.

Behavioral adaptation of macaques

Macaques are aware of the fact that hot water helps them to withstand the cold. Therefore, they are submerged in the hot spring. The ability to adjust to the surrounding environment is behavioral adaptation.

Hot water of the spring keeps the body of the macaques warm and reduces the heat loss from the body.