aestivation
- Pronunciation
- /ee-stuh-VAY-shuhn/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- aestivation
- Plural
- aestivations
Definition
A period of dormancy or inactivity in some arthropods and other animals during hot or dry periods to conserve energy and reduce water loss.
Etymology
From Latin 'aestivare', meaning 'to spend the summer', from 'aestas' meaning 'summer'.
Example
Certain species of desert ants enter a state of aestivation to survive the extreme heat and aridity of the summer months.
Synonyms
- Summer dormancy
- Dry-season dormancy
Related Terms
- Hibernation
- Diapause
- Torpor
Usage Notes
Aestivation is similar to hibernation, but it occurs during the summer and is mainly a response to high temperatures and water scarcity.