Endoterme

Endoterme is a term used in biology to describe an organism that maintains a relatively stable internal body temperature through metabolic heat production, rather than relying primarily on environmental heat. In English, the corresponding term is endotherm. Endotherms include most mammals and birds, and they contrast with ectotherms, which regulate temperature largely by external sources such as sunlight or water.

The ability to generate heat comes from metabolic processes that raise and stabilize core temperature. Endotherms typically have higher metabolic rates and often possess insulative features such as fur, feathers, or body fat to reduce heat loss. They also employ thermogenic mechanisms, including shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis via specialized adipose tissue, to produce heat when needed. Behavioral strategies, such as seeking shelter or altering activity, complement physiological thermoregulation.

Endothermy offers advantages for activity and performance across a wide range of environments, enabling sustained movement, rapid growth, and active foraging in cool or variable climates. These benefits come with higher energetic costs, requiring greater food intake and efficient energy management. Evolutionarily, endothermy has arisen in separate vertebrate lineages, most notably in the ancestors of birds and mammals, illustrating a case of convergent evolution. Some groups exhibit variations in thermoregulation, and exceptions exist—for example, certain large marine mammals rely on insulation like blubber in addition to metabolic heat production.

In summary, endoterme refers to warm-blooded organisms that regulate their internal temperature through internal heat generation, enabling stable physiology and active life across diverse environments.