Ectothermic

Definition

Ectothermic organisms rely on external environmental conditions to regulate their body temperature. These animals often exhibit behaviors such as basking in the sun or seeking shade to maintain optimal body functioning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ectothermic animals are commonly found among reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
2. These organisms have lower metabolic rates compared to endothermic animals.
3. Ectotherms can survive with less food than endotherms because they don't need to generate internal heat.
4. They may become inactive or enter a state of torpor during extreme temperatures.
5. Behavioral adaptations like basking and burrowing are crucial for ectotherms to manage their body temperature.

Review Questions

• What is the primary difference between ectothermic and endothermic organisms?
• Name three types of animals that are typically ectothermic.
• Why do ectothermic animals tend to have lower metabolic rates than endothermic animals?

Related terms

Endothermic: Animals that regulate their own body temperature through internal metabolic processes.

Torpor:

A state of decreased physiological activity in an animal, usually characterized by a reduced body temperature and metabolic rate.

Metabolic Rate: The rate at which an organism converts nutrients into energy and sustains its bodily functions.