Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Biological rhythms refer to the natural cycles or patterns that occur in various physiological processes within living organisms. These rhythms can be daily, monthly, or yearly and are regulated by internal biological clocks.
Related terms
Circadian Rhythms: Circadian rhythms are 24-hour cycles that regulate sleep-wake patterns and other physiological processes. They help us adjust to the light-dark cycle of day and night.
Ultradian Rhythms: Ultradian rhythms are shorter than 24-hour cycles and include things like heartbeat, breathing rate, and hormone release.
Infradian Rhythms: Infradian rhythms are longer than 24 hours and involve menstrual cycles in females or seasonal changes in animals' reproductive behavior.