NATS 4210 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Membrane Fluidity, Torpor, Ectotherm
5 Nov 2016
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Document Summary
Temperature affects physiological processes including: protein structure & function, membrane fluidity, the rate of chemical reactions, metabolic rate (oxygen consumption) Temperature can range from -90oc (antarctica) to 80oc/100oc (deserts and geothermal springs: 350oc in deep sea hydrothermal vents. Environmental temperature more variable in terrestrial ecosystems. Thermal adaptation strategies depends on ambient temperature (ta) and the animals" primary source of heat. 2 ways to classify animals based on stability of body temperature. Poikilotherms- animals in which the body temperature fluctuates; body temperature is close to ambient temperature. Homeotherms- animals that are capable of maintaining body temperatures above or below ambient temperatures; regulate body temperature within a narrow range; remain active in both cold and warm surroundings. 3 ways to classify animals based on source of stored heat. Ectotherms- animals that rely on environmental sources of heat. Endotherms- animals that generate their own body heat through metabolism.
