* Endotherms: These animals regulate their own body temperature internally. They generate heat through metabolic processes.
* Ectotherms: These animals rely on external sources of heat to maintain their body temperature. They are often called "cold-blooded", but this is inaccurate.
Evolutionary Advantage of Each Strategy:
* Endotherms have the advantage of being able to maintain a stable internal temperature regardless of the external environment. This allows them to be active in a wider range of temperatures and locations, making them adaptable. However, endothermy requires a lot of energy, so these animals need to eat more and have a faster metabolism.
* Ectotherms have the advantage of needing less energy to maintain their body temperature. They can survive on a lower food intake and use less energy. However, they are limited to environments with suitable temperatures and become less active in cold conditions.
Summary:
The difference between endotherms and ectotherms is about how they regulate their body temperature, not whether they are "warm" or "cold." Both strategies have their advantages and disadvantages, and each has been successful in allowing animals to thrive in different environments.