Which of the following is an advantage that ectotherms have over endotherms of the same size? a. They require much less food. b. They are less vulnerable to predation during cold weather. c. They can remain active in cold weather or on cold nights. d. They have higher metabolic rates and grow more quickly.

Key Concepts

Ectothermy vs. Endothermy

Ectotherms, or 'cold-blooded' animals, rely on external environmental temperatures to regulate their body heat, while endotherms, or 'warm-blooded' animals, generate heat internally through metabolic processes. This fundamental difference affects their energy requirements, activity levels, and adaptability to varying climates.

Metabolic Rate

Metabolic rate refers to the rate at which an organism converts food into energy. Ectotherms typically have lower metabolic rates than endotherms, allowing them to survive on less food, especially in cooler environments where their activity levels decrease, making them more energy-efficient.

Behavioral Adaptations

Ectotherms often exhibit behavioral adaptations to cope with temperature fluctuations, such as basking in the sun to warm up or seeking shade to cool down. These strategies enable them to remain active during cooler periods, unlike endotherms, which maintain a constant internal temperature regardless of external conditions.