Classification of Animals by Type of Thermoregulation

Endotherms

(Homeothermy)

Ectotherms

(Poikilothermy)

Warm-blooded animals control their core body temperature independently of the environmental (ambient) temperature. Both physiological and behavioral mechanisms of regulation are used. Click for physiological mechanisms.

Siamese Cat - color is an indication of environment it was raised in

Tyrosine ------> melanin

Tyrosinase: works at lower than body temperature

cold environment = darker tips

Cold-blooded animals are largely dependent on their environment, so must adjust their behavior in order to maintain a constant core temperature. Click for common behaviors.