Brumation
Brumation (pronunciation: broo-MAY-shun) is a term used in Herpetology to describe the period of dormancy in cold-blooded animals, particularly reptiles, during the winter months.
Etymology
The term 'brumation' is derived from the Latin word 'bruma', which means 'winter'. It was first used in the 1960s to differentiate the hibernation-like state of reptiles from the true hibernation observed in mammals.
Overview
Unlike hibernation, where mammals enter a state of deep sleep, brumating reptiles remain awake but inactive. They often retreat to burrows, under rocks or inside fallen logs to protect themselves from the cold temperatures. During this period, they do not eat and their metabolism slows down significantly.
Related Terms
- Hibernation: A state of inactivity and metabolic depression in endotherms during winter.
- Estivation: A state of dormancy during hot, dry periods, often seen in desert animals.
- Torpor: A short-term period of decreased activity and metabolism, often daily in small mammals and birds.
- Diapause: A period of suspended development in insects, fish, and amphibians to survive unfavorable conditions.
See Also
References
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