Insects have open circulatory systems in which blood, or hemolymph, circulates
through the body cavity rather than through closed blood vessels. Birds, like
other vertebrates, have closed circulatory systems in which blood remains
within arteries, veins, and capillaries as it circulates. Based on their
difference in circulatory system, which of the following statements best
describes an organism that would be favored by selection during a food
shortage?
a. Insects would be favored because an open circulatory system requires less
energy.
b. Insects would be favored because an open circulatory system stores energy.
c. Birds would be favored because a closed circulatory system loses less
energy to heat.
d. Birds would be favored because a closed circulatory system is more
efficient at delivering nutrients.