heat

Posted by matt taylor on February 2, 2006

Q: why are cold blooded animals unable to retain heat from food and activityn in the same way as mammals?

A: Excellent question. The ectotherms have lower metabolism and insulation to retain heat than do the endotherms. Ectotherms rely on maintaining their core temperature by gaining heat from their environment although some can increase body heat with activity but this is limited. Thanks for asking.

John Wiessinger ( February 3, 2006)