Which of the following is an important difference between an ectotherm and an endotherm of similar body size? A) An ectotherm has higher Q₁₀ values. B) Only an ectotherm uses behavioral thermoregulation. C) Only an endotherm can constrict and dilate the blood vessels to the skin to alter heat flow. D) Only an endotherm can have a fever. E) At a body temperature of 37°C, an ectotherm has a lower metabolic rate than an endotherm.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The metabolic rate of an ectotherm is largely determined by its body temperature and tends to be lower at higher temperatures. In contrast, an endotherm has a higher baseline metabolic rate due to its internal heat production, which allows it to maintain a constant body temperature even in variable environments. This is an important difference between the two groups of animals. Choices A, B, C, and D are not accurate statements about the differences between ectotherms and endotherms.

Which of the Following Is an Important Difference Between an Ectotherm