How does the Woolly Bear's overwintering state differ from true hibernation seen in mammals?
Answer
The Woolly Bear remains capable of reacting to stimuli, such as curling when touched.
While diapause involves a drastic reduction in the insect’s metabolic rate, it is fundamentally different from the sustained, deep torpor characterizing true hibernation in mammals. The critical distinction is responsiveness: a Woolly Bear in diapause is not completely inert; it retains a level of capability allowing it to react defensively (like curling up) if physically provoked. True hibernation generally implies a more profound, sustained suspension of nearly all life processes until favorable conditions return.
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