Paleontologist Dr. Alan Foster argues that some dinosaur species were warm-blooded, contrary to the traditional view of reptiles as cold-blooded. He points to evidence of rapid growth rates and active predatory behaviors that would require high metabolism.
Which discovery would most strengthen Foster's argument about warm-blooded dinosaurs?
Fossils of feathered dinosaurs discovered in cold climates, with bone structures showing continuous growth rings similar to modern warm-blooded animals
Dinosaurs lived on every continent
Some dinosaur species were very large
Dinosaurs lived for millions of years
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. Multiple lines of evidence: cold-climate survival (needs heat regulation), feathers (insulation), continuous growth (high metabolism).
- Context clues: Warm-blooded claims require evidence of metabolism and heat regulation.
- Evidence evaluation: Feathers + cold climate + growth patterns all indicate warm-bloodedness.
- Verify: This matches multiple criteria for warm-blooded physiology.
💡 Strategy: Biological claims benefit from multiple independent lines of evidence.
Choice B is incorrect because global distribution doesn't prove metabolic type. Choice C is incorrect because size alone doesn't indicate warm-bloodedness. Choice D is incorrect because longevity as species doesn't prove individual physiology.