What ecological principle describes why deer in colder, northern regions generally mature into larger animals than southern counterparts?
Answer
Bergmann's Rule.
The observed phenomenon where animals of the same species tend to be larger in colder geographic regions compared to warmer regions is explained by Bergmann's Rule. In the context of the white-tailed deer, deer inhabiting colder, northern territories generally develop larger body masses than those found in warmer southern climates. Biologically, a larger body mass provides a lower surface area to volume ratio, which is advantageous for retaining body heat and conserving energy in frigid environments. This adaptation represents a significant aspect of the species' geographic plasticity across its wide North American range.
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