Is a hermit crab an ectotherm?

Yes, hermit crabs are ectotherms. This means they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.

Here's why:

* Lack of internal temperature regulation: Unlike endothermic animals (like mammals and birds), hermit crabs don't have the ability to generate their own body heat.

* Environmental dependence: Their body temperature fluctuates with the surrounding environment. They warm up in the sun and cool down in the shade or water.

* Behavioral adaptations: To maintain a comfortable temperature, hermit crabs use behaviors like basking in the sun, seeking shade, or burrowing in sand.

Therefore, hermit crabs are indeed ectothermic animals.