Physiology

Endotherm

An organism that generates body heat internally through metabolic processes, maintaining a relatively constant body temperature regardless of external conditions. Birds and mammals are endotherms.

Biological Context

Endothermy requires high metabolic rates and food consumption but enables activity in cold environments and sustained high-energy activities. Endotherms can forage, hunt, and reproduce across wider temperature ranges than ectotherms.

Business Application

Endothermic organizations: those with high internal energy (capital, talent, culture) that can operate regardless of market conditions. High burn rate but sustained capability.

Related Terms

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physiologytemperaturemetabolism