Thermoregulation - Anatomy & Physiology
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
|
Thermoregulation
Thermoregulation is the ability of an endothermic organism to maintain a relatively constant body temperature despite fluctuations in temperature of the external environment. This is a vital part of homeostasis.
- Homeotherm/Endotherm: an organism with an internal temperature which remains relatively constant despite external temperature fluctuations.
- Poikilotherm/Ectotherm: an organism having a body temperature which fluctuates with the external environment - eg Fish, Reptile.
Mechanism of Action
The thermoregulatory mechanism consists of:
- Sensory Component: neurones that possess nerve endings with thermoreceptors continuously monitor body temperature and transmit it to the integrating centre.
- Integrating Centre: