[25] Thermoregulation Flashcards
What is thermoregulation?
The process by which organisms maintain their internal body temperature within certain boundaries
What organ plays a critical role in thermoregulation?
Hypothalamus
What role does the hypothalamus play in thermoregulation?
It acts as the body’s thermostat by receiving signals about body temperature and initiating responses to maintain it within a set range
What are some examples of behavioral adaptations for thermoregulation?
- Seeking shade when it’s hot
- Basking in the sun when it’s cold
What are some examples of physiological adaptations for thermoregulation?
- Sweating or panting to cool down
- Shivering to warm up
What are some examples of anatomical adaptations for thermoregulation?
- Thick fur in cold climates
- Thin or no fur in hot climates
How does vasodilation help in thermoregulation?
Vasodilation increases blood flow to the skin surface, helping to dissipate heat and lower body temperature
How does vasoconstriction help in thermoregulation?
Vasoconstriction reduces blood flow to the skin surface, helping to conserve heat and increase body temperature
How do endothermic and ectothermic animals differ in thermoregulation?
- Endothermic animals regulate their body temperature internally, mainly through metabolic processes
- Ectothermic animals depend more on external environmental conditions to regulate their body temperature
What role does thermogenesis play in thermoregulation?
Thermogenesis is the process of heat production in organisms, which plays a vital role in maintaining body temperature