Why do some amphibians become inactive under unfavorable conditions?what are the terms given to these inactive phases?
Answers
Answer:
aestivation-summer sleep
hibernation-winter sleep
Explanation:
Amphibians are cold-blooded animals, meaning they do not have a constant body temperature but instead take on the temperature of their environment. They have moist, scaleless skin that absorbs water and oxygen, but that also makes them vulnerable to dehydration (loss of bodily fluids). Without moist conditions, their skin dries out and they die. Therefore, amphibians are most often found near ponds, marshlands, swamps, and other areas where freshwater is available. Some amphibians become inactive when conditions are unfavorable for survival. This period of inactivity is called aestivation when it occurs during hot, dry weather and hibernation when it occurs in response to cold temperatures. Activity resumes when favorable conditions return.