ectotherm

views updated May 17 2018

ectotherm (poikilotherm) An animal that maintains its body temperature by absorbing heat from the surrounding environment. All animals except mammals and birds are ectotherms; they are often described as being cold-blooded and are unable to regulate their body temperature metabolically. See poikilothermy. Compare endotherm; heterotherm.

A Dictionary of Biology

ectotherm

views updated May 18 2018

ectotherm An animal that maintains its body temperature within fairly narrow limits by behavioural means (e.g. basking or seeking shade). Terrestrial reptiles are ectotherms. Compare poikilotherm.

A Dictionary of Ecology MICHAEL ALLABY

ectotherm

views updated May 23 2018

ectotherm An animal that maintains its body temperature within fairly narrow limits by behavioural means (e.g. basking or seeking shade). Terrestrial reptiles are ectotherms. Compare POIKILOTHERM.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

ectotherm

views updated May 08 2018

ectotherm See HOMOIOTHERM.

A Dictionary of Earth Sciences AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY

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ectotherm

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