What key physiological adaptation in the genus *Thunnus* grants superior burst speed?
Answer
Being partially warm-bodied (endothermic)
A significant shared physiological adaptation among species within the genus *Thunnus*, including *T. obesus*, is that they are partially warm-bodied, or endothermic. This capability allows these powerful pelagic predators to actively maintain higher muscle temperatures than the surrounding cold ocean water. This internal temperature regulation is crucial because it grants them superior burst speed capability and allows for sustained, efficient cruising ability over long distances, providing a competitive advantage over fish that are entirely cold-blooded.
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