
ectothermy
Ectothermy is a way some animals regulate their body temperature by relying on external environmental sources, like sunlight or warm surfaces. Unlike endotherms (warm-blooded animals) that generate heat internally, ectotherms, such as reptiles and amphibians, depend on outside heat to stay active and maintain proper bodily functions. This means their activity levels and body temperature can vary with the weather. Ectothermy allows these animals to conserve energy because they don't need to constantly produce heat, but it also makes them more sensitive to temperature changes in their surroundings.