poikilothermous
Definition
Adjective 1. Having a body temperature that varies with the surrounding environment: Describes an animal whose internal temperature is not constant but changes according to the temperature of its environment. This is a biological characteristic of most animals except birds and mammals.
Usage
The word is a scientific term used primarily in biology and zoology to classify animals based on their thermoregulation. It describes a physiological state. * Frogs and snakes are poikilothermous animals, often basking in the sun to warm up. * The poikilothermous nature of fish means their activity level is directly influenced by water temperature.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used in ecological studies to discuss adaptations and limitations:
- It can be contrasted with "homeothermous" (having a constant body temperature).
Variants and Related Words
- Poikilotherm (noun): An animal that is poikilothermous.
- Poikilothermy (noun): The condition of being poikilothermous.
Synonyms
- Cold-blooded: (Common, less scientific) Having a body temperature that varies with the environment.
- Ectothermic: (Scientific) Deriving body heat mainly from the environment. (Note: "Poikilothermous" and "ectothermic" are often used interchangeably, though some definitions make subtle distinctions regarding the source versus the variability of heat.)
Antonyms
- Homeothermous / Homeothermic (adj.): Having a constant body temperature.
- Warm-blooded (common): Maintaining a constant, warm body temperature.
- Endothermic (scientific): Generating body heat internally.
Adjective
-
of animals except birds and mammals; having body temperature that varies with the environment
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