Phys Eco exam 2 Section 7: Scholander Curve, Acclimatization & Heterothermy

What is the thermoneutral zone?

The range of ambient temperatures where an animal does not need to spend extra energy thermoregulating.

What is the lower critical temperature?

The ambient temperature below which metabolic rate must increase to maintain internal temperature.

What is the upper critical temperature?

The ambient temperature above which metabolic rate increases due to heat stress.

Why does metabolic rate increase below the lower critical temperature?

Additional metabolic heat is required to maintain body temperature.

Why does metabolic rate increase above the upper critical temperature?

Heat stress increases metabolic costs.

What properties influence the Scholander curve?

Conductance and insulation.

What is acclimatization in this lecture?

Seasonal adjustment of metabolic rate.

What metabolic characteristics can change during acclimatization?

Basal metabolic rate and peak metabolic rate.

What is peripheral heterothermy?

Maintaining parts of the body at temperatures different from the core.

What mechanism supports peripheral heterothermy?

Countercurrent heat exchange.

Where is peripheral heterothermy especially useful?

Appendages such as terrestrial legs and aquatic flippers.

How is peripheral heterothermy adaptive in cold environments?

It allows appendages to remain cooler than the core, reducing heat loss.