Thermoregulation, Osmoregulation, and Reproductive Strategies

These flashcards cover essential concepts in thermoregulation, osmoregulation, and reproductive strategies from the lecture notes.

What is homeostasis in thermoregulation?

Keeping internal conditions stable despite outside changes, usually through negative feedback.

What are the effects of temperature on enzymes?

Increased temperature speeds up reactions until proteins denature; too hot or cold impairs enzyme function.

What is the difference between endotherms and ectotherms?

Endotherms generate heat internally (e.g., birds, mammals); ectotherms depend on external heat sources (e.g., reptiles, amphibians).

Name one method of thermoregulation.

Changing behavior (e.g., sun/shade), insulation (e.g., fur, feathers), or physiological responses (e.g., vasodilation, sweating).

What is torpor?

A short-term drop in metabolism and body temperature, typically overnight.

Define osmosis.

Diffusion of water across a membrane from low solute concentration to high solute concentration.

What is the main purpose of the nephron?

To filter blood, reabsorb needed substances, and secrete waste to maintain water and salt balance.

What are osmoconformers?

Organisms whose body fluids match their environment, often found in marine invertebrates and sharks.

What are the different types of metabolic wastes?

Ammonia (toxic, needs lots of water), urea (medium toxicity, saves water), and uric acid (low toxicity, minimal water).

Describe asexual reproduction.

A reproduction method involving one parent, cloning, and low genetic diversity.

What is a key characteristic of internal fertilization?

Fewer gametes are produced, and the embryo is protected within the mother.

What are the stages of development post-fertilization?

Zygote, cleavage, morula, blastula, gastrula.

Define oviparous reproduction.

Eggs are laid and the embryo develops outside the mother's body.

What is haplodiploidy in bees?

Drones are haploid males, workers are diploid females and sterile, and the queen is a diploid fertile female.