The thorny devil (*Moloch horridus*), a lizard native to the arid regions of Australia, has evolved a specialized method for gathering water in its desert habitat. Rather than drinking directly through its mouth, the lizard utilizes a network of microscopic grooves located between its scales. When dew or rain contacts the lizard's skin, capillary action draws the liquid through these grooves directly toward the corners of its mouth, where the lizard then swallows it. This unique physical adaptation allows the thorny devil to harvest moisture from its surroundings simply by standing in damp sand or encountering light precipitation.
Based on the text, what is true of the thorny devil's water-gathering process?
- It involves water moving through microscopic grooves between its scales via capillary action.Answer
- BIt requires the lizard to drink water directly through its mouth from open pools of rainwater.
- CIt allows the lizard to absorb water through its skin directly into its bloodstream.
- DIt is facilitated by scales that expand to store water during periods of heavy rainfall.
Answer
The water-gathering process involves water moving through microscopic grooves between the lizard's scales via capillary action.
The correct option is supported directly by the text, which states that capillary action draws liquid through a network of microscopic grooves located between the lizard's scales toward the corners of its mouth.
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