Chapter 29, Problem 16A

Summary Introduction

To write:

About the relationship between endotherm and down feather.

Introduction:

Birds are different from other vertebrates due to the presence of two characteristics, that is the presence of feathers, and they can fly. Birds belong to class Aves and they are range in size from tiny hummingbirds to large flightless ostriches. Birds are found in forests, deserts, prairies, mountains, and on all seas. The adaptations of birds include they being able to produce their own body heat internally or endothermy, feathers, and light-weight bones.

Explanation of Solution

Birds are endotherms because they have the ability to generate their own body heat internally by its own metabolism. The high metabolic rate associated with endothermy generates a large amount of ATP that can be used to power flight muscles or for other purposes.

Down feathers are soft feathers located beneath contour feathers. Down feathers do not have hooks to hold barbs together. As a result, the looser structures of down feathers can trap air that acts as insulation.

Conclusion

Endotherm means an organism that can generate its own body heat and down feathers act as an insulator.