Chapter 32.5, Problem 2MC

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The process of adaptation for gut length in amphibian tadpoles to differ from generation to generation, relying on the environment.

Concept introduction:

The gut demands a lot of energy to produce and maintain it properly. The length of gut determines the efficiency of extraction of nutrients from food. A longer gut helps in smooth digestion of food, but it also demands more energy requirement. All animals need to balance the costs of gut development with the benefits of appropriate gut length. The gut length varies from generation to generation in animals depending on the food availability in the environment.