Estivation

Definition

A state of dormancy or torpor during hot, dry periods undertaken by certain animals, including some insects and arachnids, to avoid extreme environmental conditions.

Etymology

From Latin 'aestivare', meaning 'to spend the summer', derived from 'aestus', meaning 'heat'.

Example

Certain species of desert ants undergo estivation to survive the incredibly hot and dry summer months.

Synonyms

• Summer dormancy
• Heat dormancy

Related Terms

• Hibernation
• Torpor
• Dormancy
• Diapause

Usage Notes

Estivation is typically used to describe a prolonged state of inactivity in response to high temperatures and arid conditions, and it is an adaptation for survival in extreme environments.