Kylmäverisiin

Kylmäverisiin refers to a group of animals that rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. This physiological characteristic is known as ectothermy. In contrast to warm-blooded animals (endotherms), which generate their own internal heat, kylmäverisiin animals absorb heat from their environment, such as sunlight, warm surfaces, or warmer water.

The body temperature of kylmäverisiin animals fluctuates with the ambient temperature. This means their metabolic rate and activity levels are directly influenced by the surrounding environment. When it's cold, they become sluggish and less active, often seeking out warmer locations to bask. Conversely, when the environment is warm, they are more active and their physiological processes accelerate.

This group encompasses a wide variety of animal classes, including reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects. For example, a lizard basking on a rock to warm itself is a typical illustration of kylmäverisiin behavior. Similarly, fish living in varying water temperatures adjust their activity based on the thermal conditions. Amphibians, with their permeable skin, are particularly sensitive to temperature changes and often inhabit moist environments to maintain hydration while also seeking optimal temperatures. Insects, being invertebrates, also exhibit ectothermic traits, with their flight and other activities being heavily dependent on external heat. The term emphasizes a fundamental difference in how these organisms maintain their internal state in relation to their surroundings.