Temperature

Temperature

A dominant ecological variable affecting survival, reproduction, and distribution of species.

Generalists

Species that have a broad distribution and can survive a wider temperature range.

Specialists

Species that have a specific temperature range for optimal performance.

Endotherm

An organism that relies on internal heat sources to regulate body temperature.

Ectotherm

An organism that relies on external heat sources to regulate body temperature.

Homeothermic

An organism whose body temperature is stable within a narrow range.

Poikilothermic

An organism whose body temperature varies significantly based on environmental conditions.

Eurythermal

A generalist species capable of functioning over a broad range of temperatures.

Stenothermal

A specialist species that can function only within a narrow range of temperatures.

Heat Tolerance

The ability of an organism to survive in extreme temperatures; varies among species.

Acclimatization

Physiological adjustments organisms make to withstand temperature changes.

Antarctic Krill

A species intolerant to temperatures exceeding 39°F.

Ruppell’s Fox

A species that survives in extreme desert conditions, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 159°F.

Countercurrent heat exchange

A thermoregulation mechanism that allows animals to retain core heat effectively.

Thermal Neutral Zone (TNZ)

The range of environmental temperatures over which the metabolic rate of an endotherm does not change.

Gular Fluttering

A cooling mechanism in birds involving rapid mouth movement to reduce body temperature.

Behavioral Adaptations

Actions taken by organisms to mitigate extreme temperature exposure, such as altering posture or hibernation.

Physiological Adaptations

Changes in an organism's body systems that help maintain temperature homeostasis.

Evaporative Heat Loss

A last resort cooling method for organisms, such as sweating and panting.

Heat Avoidance Behaviors

Behavioral adaptations that organisms utilize to avoid excessive heat exposure.

Cold Tolerance

The ability of an organism to survive in extremely cold conditions.

Supercooling

A method some organisms use to lower their freezing point and avoid freezing.

Antifreeze Proteins

Proteins produced by some organisms to remain active in freezing conditions.