Question

Animals having a built in thermostat to maintain constant body temperature are known as

• A. Poikilotherms
• B. Homeotherms
• C. Cold blooded
• D. Both B and C

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Homeotherms

Homeothermy refers to thermoregulation that maintains a stable internal body temperature regardless of external influence. Higher chordates such as birds and mammals are examples of homeotherms or warm blooded animals (endotherms ). Poikilotherms (or ectotherms) on the other hand, are organisms whose body temperature is not stable; the body temperature fluctuates according to that of the ambient temperature. They are also known as cold blooded animals. Fishes, amphibians and reptiles are examples.