Thermal Relations and Temperature in Animals

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Explain why temperature is so important in the lives of individual animals.

Temperature is important because it can denature enzymes, block metabolic pathways, influence the diffusion of molecules, and affect the viscosity of lipid bilayers.

What is the difference between ectotherms and endotherms in terms of body temperature regulation?

Ectotherms have body temperatures close to their environment, while endotherms can use metabolic heat to keep their body temperature warmer than their surroundings.

How do ectothermic vertebrates, such as fish, amphibians, and reptiles, regulate their body temperature?

Ectothermic vertebrates regulate their body temperature primarily through behavioral mechanisms.

What is the main difference between endothermic species, such as mammals and birds, and ectothermic species in terms of body temperature maintenance?

<p>Endothermic species maintain a constant body temperature in fluctuating environmental temperatures, while ectothermic species have body temperatures that fluctuate with their environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why can endotherms maintain a higher body temperature than the environment?

<p>Endotherms can maintain a higher body temperature than the environment due to their high metabolic rate, which generates enough heat to keep their body temperature substantially warmer.</p> Signup and view all the answers