Hormonal and Behavioral Responses to Environmental Changes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to hormonal responses, behavioral adaptations, and antipredator strategies in animals.

Glucocorticoids

Hormones that are often referred to as 'stress hormones' but play an essential role in metabolism, immune function, and other physiological processes.

HPA axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, involved in the stress response and regulation of glucocorticoids.

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)

Hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that stimulates the release of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) from the pituitary gland.

Adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)

Hormone released into circulation that stimulates cortisol release from the adrenal cortex.

Cortisol

A steroid hormone released by the adrenal cortex that plays a role in the stress response.

Acute stressors

Short-term stressors that can be adaptive and allow for rapid responses to environmental challenges.

Chronic stressors

Long-term stressors that can lead to maladaptive responses and negative health outcomes.

Antipredator behavior

Behaviors exhibited by prey to avoid being detected or attacked by predators.

Batesian mimicry

When an edible species resembles a distasteful or dangerous one to deter predators.

Müllerian mimicry

When two or more distasteful or dangerous species resemble each other, reinforcing the avoidance behavior in predators.

Stotting behavior

A behavior exhibited by gazelles to signal to predators that they are uncatchable and possess sufficient energy for escape.