Question map
Which one among the following groups of animals maintains constant body temperature in changing environmental conditions ?
Explanation
Animals are classified based on how they regulate body temperature. Endotherms, also known as warm-blooded animals, maintain a constant internal body temperature (homeostasis) primarily through internal metabolic processes [1]. This allows them to remain active across varying environmental conditions. Birds and mammals are the primary examples of endotherms that use high energy levels to keep their body temperature steady regardless of the external environment [5]. In contrast, ectotherms (cold-blooded animals) such as amphibians, reptiles, and most fishes depend on external heat sources . Their body temperature typically fluctuates with the temperature of their surroundings, a condition known as poikilothermy [3]. While some ectotherms use behavioral methods like basking to regulate heat, only birds and mammals possess the internal physiological mechanisms to maintain a truly constant body temperature [5].
Sources
- [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 29: Environment Issues and Health Effects > 29.3.4. Greeenwashing > p. 419
- [5] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 9: Indian Biodiversity Diverse Landscape > Do vou know? > p. 158
- [3] https://www.khanacademy.org/science/ap-biology/ecology-ap/energy-flow-through-ecosystems/a/endotherms-ectotherms