Why do animals that live in freezing climates store body fats as oil instead of as a solid?

Answer 1

Because the environment is already so cold, solid fats would harden or freeze making it very hard for the organism to survive or utilize the nutrients properly. Oil naturally takes longer to freeze than water does, and therefore creates a more usable fluid substance so the organism doesn't die. For example, arctic fish store their nutrients and body fats as oils so that they can always be flexible and swim properly. This is also why fish and fish oil is so popular to sell. The rich nutrients stored in the fatty oils provide many vitamins and other substances that many people need to maintain a healthy diet.

Answer 2

Storing body fats as oil allows animals to keep their tissues flexible and functional in cold temperatures, whereas solid fats would become rigid and impair movement. Oil also has a lower freezing point than solid fats, helping to maintain cellular function in freezing climates. Additionally, oil provides a concentrated source of energy for animals during periods of food scarcity in winter.

Answer 3

I would think liquid because a liquid is easier to break down when needed.

Answer 4

The advantage of body fat stored as oil not solid fat would be because the environment is cold, solid fat would become hard or freeze. The animal might not survive.