Glycolysis and gluconeogenesis are opposing pathways in that they begin or end with the same metabolites and share common intermediates and/or enzymes. Yet, for energetic reasons, the two processes cannot be the exact reverse of each other. How is this possible

Due to difference in their products.

Explanation:

Glycolysis and gluconeogenesis are not exact reverse to each other because in glycolysis, glucose is converted into pyruvate, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), NADH, protons i.e. hydrogen ions and water whereas in gluconeogenesis, pyruvate is converted into glucose and glycogen. So due to  the formation of different products of each process we can say that glycolysis is not exact reverse of gluconeogenesis.

as the gila monster consumes the eggs or young of the desert cottontail and gambel's quail, thus its main food supply is only accessible for a restricted time duration every year. however, for this, the gila monsters exhibit three adaptations, which elevate their survival rate in the desert condition.  

first, is that they possess huge bodies, and can consume greater concentrations of food during a small period. secondly, they require to feed infrequently as they can accumulate fat in their tails. ultimately, their rate of metabolism is very low, so that they can burn their reservoirs of fat gradually.