SSC CGL 2024 PYQ — Question 49

SSC CGL - 11 Sep 2024 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q49

What do we mean by Allen’s rule?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Mammals from colder climates generally have shorter ears and limbs to minimise heat loss.

Allen's rule states that mammals from colder climates generally have shorter ears and limbs to minimize heat loss. This is an evolutionary adaptation to conserve body heat in cold environments. Smaller extremities reduce the surface area through which heat can escape, helping to maintain body temperature. The rule is observed in many cold-adapted species, such as Arctic foxes and snow hares, where the limbs and ears are shorter compared to their counterparts in warmer regions.