Compared to humans, koalas ingest a relatively large amount of

a. water.
b. protein, which can be hard on their kidneys.
c. essential fatty acids.
d. sodium.
e. toxic terpene oils.


E; The eucalyptus leaf diet of the koala supplies it with a level of essential terpene oils (plant defense compounds) that would poison any animal (including humans) not specifically adapted to tolerate them. Unlike humans, koalas do not drink water (choice a), but rather conserve the small amount acquired with the leaves. Leaves are a poor source of protein, fat, and sodium, all components that humans enjoy consuming and get from sources other than leaves.

Biology & Microbiology

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