Endogenous rhythm
- Pronunciation
- /en-DOH-jen-uss rih-THIM/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Endogenous rhythm
- Plural
- Endogenous rhythms
Definition
A periodic system that is self-sustaining, occurring within an organism independent of external environmental cues.
Etymology
From Greek 'endon-', meaning 'within', and 'rhythmos', meaning 'rhythm'.
Example
The endogenous rhythm of a cockroach's circadian clock allows it to maintain a regular sleep-wake cycle even in constant darkness.
Related Terms
- Circadian rhythm
- Temporal organization