Wood frogs freeze solid during the winter and then thaw in the spring. As the freezing progresses, blood circulation stops. How would you expect cells not being served by the circulatory system to produce ATP during this time, and what by-product would you expect to build up in the cells?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the absence of oxygen, cells can switch to anaerobic fermentation to produce ATP. However, this process produces lactate as a by-product, which can build up and cause acidification of the cells. Wood frogs can tolerate this buildup to a certain extent, but if it continues for too long, it can be harmful to the cells.

Wood Frogs Freeze Solid During the Winter and Then Thaw