Ectothermic
- Pronunciation
- /ek-toh-THER-mik/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Ectotherm
- Plural
- Ectotherms
Definition
Referring to organisms that regulate their body temperature primarily through external sources, such as absorbing heat from the environment.
Etymology
From Greek 'ektos' meaning 'outside' and 'thermos' meaning 'heat'.
Example
Most insects are ectothermic and rely on external heat sources to maintain their body temperatures.
Synonyms
Related Terms
- Endothermic
- Thermoregulation
- Metabolism
Usage Notes
Ectothermic organisms are often found in environments where they can effectively regulate their temperature through behavior, such as basking in the sun.