Endotherms

Definition

Endotherms are organisms that maintain a constant body temperature through internal metabolic processes. They can generate heat to stay warm or cool down by expelling excess heat.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Endotherms have a high metabolic rate compared to ectotherms.
2. They rely on metabolic heat production rather than environmental temperatures for thermoregulation.
3. Birds and mammals are typical examples of endothermic vertebrates.
4. Endothermy allows for sustained activity levels in various environmental conditions.
5. High energy demands of endothermy often require frequent feeding.

Review Questions

• What is the primary difference between endotherms and ectotherms in terms of temperature regulation?
• Why do endotherms tend to have higher metabolic rates than ectotherms?
• Give two examples of vertebrate classes that consist primarily of endothermic species.

Related terms

Ectotherms:

Organisms that rely on external environmental temperatures to regulate their body temperature.

Metabolic Rate: The rate at which an organism converts food into energy.

Thermoregulation:

The process by which organisms maintain their internal body temperature within an optimal range despite external fluctuations.