You are studying a large tropical reptile that has a high and relatively stable body temperature. How would you determine whether this animal is an endotherm or an ectotherm?

Endothermy refers to the ability of an organism to regulate its body temperature internally, maintaining a stable temperature regardless of external environmental conditions. Endotherms, such as mammals and birds, generate heat through metabolic processes, allowing them to thrive in various habitats, including extreme climates.

Ectothermy is the reliance on external environmental sources to regulate body temperature. Ectotherms, like reptiles and amphibians, absorb heat from their surroundings, which can lead to fluctuating body temperatures that depend on the ambient environment. This strategy often results in lower metabolic rates compared to endotherms.

Thermoregulation is the process by which organisms maintain their internal body temperature within a certain range, crucial for optimal physiological functioning. This can involve behavioral adaptations, such as basking in the sun or seeking shade, as well as physiological mechanisms like altering metabolic rates. Understanding thermoregulation helps distinguish between endothermic and ectothermic strategies.