estivation
Quick Summary
Estivation is a state of dormancy or torpidity that certain animals enter during hot, dry summer months. It is similar to hibernation, which occurs in winter, but is triggered by heat and dryness rather than cold. Animals estivate to conserve energy and survive periods of environmental stress, such as drought or scarce food.1234
During estivation, an animal's metabolism slows down, and its body temperature may lower, making it appear almost dead. This state allows them to endure harsh summer conditions until more favourable environmental circumstances return. Examples of animals that estivate include certain snakes, snails, and lizards.132
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lungfishPhysiology and biochemistry…for their “dry sleep,” or estivation (see dormancy). After burying themselves, they become encased in a mucous sheath that gradually hardens. Here they spend the dry season, during which the waterline becomes lower and the riverbed or lake bed finally dries out. The African lungfish generally digs in and encysts…
Read More…for their “dry sleep,” or estivation (see dormancy). After burying themselves, they become encased in a mucous sheath that gradually hardens. Here they spend the dry season, during which the waterline becomes lower and the riverbed or lake bed finally dries out. The African lungfish generally digs in and encysts…
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respiratory systemFishes…enter into a state of estivation in which metabolism, respiration, and heart rate fall to low levels. This state of diminished oxygen requirement enables the lungfish to remain viable without food or water for months or years, until the waters return.
Read More…enter into a state of estivation in which metabolism, respiration, and heart rate fall to low levels. This state of diminished oxygen requirement enables the lungfish to remain viable without food or water for months or years, until the waters return.
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