Chapter 4: Problem 26

Generally, humans are considered diurnal which means we are awake during the day and asleep during the night. Many rodents, on the other hand, are nocturnal. Why do you think different animals have such different sleep-wake cycles?

Short Answer

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Different animals have different sleep-wake cycles due to variations in their biological clocks and adaptations to specific environmental conditions, including food availability and predator threats. These adaptations help animals to best utilize their sensory skills, better locate or avoid competition for food, and evade predators.

Step by step solution

Understanding Diurnal and Nocturnal

Diurnal and nocturnal are terms used to describe the active periods of animals. Diurnal animals are most active during the day and asleep during the night, e.g. humans. Nocturnal animals, such as many rodents, are most active during the night and sleep during the day.

Considering Biological Factors

Animals have an internal biological clock, also known as circadian rhythm, which is influenced by the amount of daylight they are exposed to. This clock regulates their sleep-wake patterns. Certain animals have evolved to be active during times when they can best use their sensory skills and physical abilities to find food and avoid predators.

Role of Environmental Factors

Animals have adapted to different environmental conditions, including the availability of food and the threat of predators. Nocturnal animals might have adapted this way to take advantage of cooler temperatures, less competition for food, and to avoid predators that are active during daylight hours. Diurnal animals, on the other hand, may be able to better locate their prey, communicate with others, and avoid predators during daylight hours.

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Generally, humans are considered diurnal which means we are awake during the day and asleep during the night. Many rodents, on the other hand, are nocturnal. Why do you think different animals have such different sleep-wake cycles?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Diurnal and Nocturnal

Considering Biological Factors

Role of Environmental Factors

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