[32] Heat Production in Ectothermic vs. Endothermic Organisms Flashcards
What is ectothermy?
Ectothermy is a physiological strategy where an organism regulates its body temperature by relying on external heat sources.
What is endothermy?
Endothermy is a physiological strategy where an organism produces its own heat to regulate body temperature, typically through metabolic processes.
Which type of organisms are usually ectothermic?
Ectothermic organisms are usually reptiles, fish, and amphibians.
Which type of organisms are usually endothermic?
Endothermic organisms are typically birds and mammals.
How does an ectothermic organism regulate its body temperature?
An ectothermic organism regulates its body temperature by changing its behavior, such as moving to a warmer or cooler environment.
How does an endothermic organism regulate its body temperature?
An endothermic organism regulates its body temperature through internal metabolic processes like burning of food in cells and shivering.
What is a benefit of ectothermy?
Ectothermy uses less food in metabolic processes, allowing the organism to use the energy for other functions.
What is a benefit of endothermy?
Endothermy allows an organism to remain active in a wide range of external temperatures.
What is a drawback of ectothermy?
Ectothermic organisms may be less active in cooler temperatures due to a reduced metabolic rate.
What is a drawback of endothermy?
Endothermic organisms have a high energy cost as they continuously need to eat food to maintain their body temperature.
How does heat production differ in ectotherms vs endotherms?
Ectotherms largely depend on the environment for heat, while endotherms generate heat internally through metabolic processes.
What is the significance of heat production in an organism’s survival?
Heat production is crucial for maintaining an optimal body temperature, which is necessary for survival as it allows for proper functioning of physiological processes.
