Poikilothermous (Adjective)
Meaning
Of animals except birds and mammals; having body temperature that varies with the environment.
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- Reptiles are poikilothermous, meaning their body temperature is regulated by the environment around them.
- Most fish are poikilothermous, which is why their metabolism slows down in cold water.
- The poikilothermous nature of amphibians makes them more susceptible to environmental changes.
- Insects are poikilothermous, which is why they are often more active in warmer temperatures.
- Many species of snakes are poikilothermous, relying on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.