Adaptations of Ectotherms and Hibernation

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the adaptations of ectotherms, hibernation, and associated ecological concepts.

Ectotherms

Organisms that rely on external environmental heat sources for regulating their body temperature.

Hibernation

A state of significantly lowered metabolic rate triggered by seasonal cues, allowing organisms to conserve energy during periods of resource scarcity.

Torpor

A short-term reduction of metabolic rate in response to environmental conditions to conserve energy.

Seasonal cues

Environmental signals, such as changes in temperature or resource availability, that trigger behavioral or physiological adaptations in organisms.

Behavioral adaptations

Actions that organisms take to minimize exposure to extreme environmental conditions, such as seeking shelter.

Fat accumulation

The process by which organisms store energy in the form of fat prior to hibernation, allowing them to survive when food is scarce.

Energy expenditure

The amount of energy that an organism uses over a period of time, which may fluctuate during hibernation.

Estivation

A state similar to hibernation, where organisms reduce metabolic rate to survive hot, dry periods.

Metabolic processes

Chemical reactions occurring within organisms that provide energy for vital functions.

Resource availability

The presence of food, water, and other essential materials that organisms need to survive.