Aestivation

Introduction

• Aestivation is an adaptive strategy used by certain animals to survive in conditions of high temperatures or drought.
• It helps prevent desiccation, which is the process of drying out, and allows animals to conserve water.

Aestivation in Various Species

• Aestivation is commonly observed in invertebrates such as worms and snails.
• It is also employed by certain vertebrates, including lungfish and crocodiles.

Example: Lungfish

• Lungfish are known for their ability to survive without water for extended periods.
• They can respire air and use aestivation as a means to avoid desiccation.
• Lungfish can hibernate underground for up to four years, reducing their metabolic activity and conserving water during dry spells.

Adaptive Benefits

• Aestivation helps organisms endure harsh environmental conditions.
• It allows them to maintain optimal enzyme activity and high diffusion rates, essential for metabolic processes.

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Aestivation

Summary

• Aestivation is an adaptation employed by various animals to survive in high-temperature or drought conditions.
• It prevents desiccation and aids in conserving water.
• Lungfish, for example, can hibernate underground for extended periods to avoid drying out.
• Aestivation is crucial for maintaining optimal enzyme activity and high diffusion rates, which are essential for metabolic processes.