Which frog structure primarily stores fat and contributes to buoyancy?

Which frog structure primarily stores fat and contributes to buoyancy?

• A. Spleen
• B. Pancreas
• C. Liver
• D. Fat body

Answer: (D)

Frogs rely on specialized adipose tissue called fat bodies as their main energy reserves, and this tissue also helps with buoyancy. Fat bodies are clusters of fat stored as triglycerides, which are less dense than water, so increasing fat storage lowers the frog’s overall density and aids flotation. This is especially useful during growth, reproduction, and periods when energy demands are high. The spleen, pancreas, and liver have other primary roles. The spleen stores and filters blood and immune cells; the pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones; the liver handles metabolism, detoxification, and glycogen storage. While the liver can store fat, it isn’t the main site for buoyancy or bulk fat storage in frogs.

Frogs rely on specialized adipose tissue called fat bodies as their main energy reserves, and this tissue also helps with buoyancy. Fat bodies are clusters of fat stored as triglycerides, which are less dense than water, so increasing fat storage lowers the frog’s overall density and aids flotation. This is especially useful during growth, reproduction, and periods when energy demands are high.

The spleen, pancreas, and liver have other primary roles. The spleen stores and filters blood and immune cells; the pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones; the liver handles metabolism, detoxification, and glycogen storage. While the liver can store fat, it isn’t the main site for buoyancy or bulk fat storage in frogs.