Aestivation

Aestivation (also known as summer dormancy) is a state of inactivity or dormancy in which an animal slows down its metabolic and physiological processes in response to high temperatures, low humidity, and lack of food. By entering this state of “aestivation”, animals are able to survive in extreme climates and conserve energy. Examples of animals that aestivate include lizards, frogs, toads, snails, crabs, sea cucumbers, and several species of fish and aquatic invertebrates. Aestivation is an adaptive behavior that helps animals to survive harsh environments and to regulate their body temperature. During aestivation, animals typically remain in a cool, damp microenvironment such as underground burrows, shallow water, or moist soil. Aestivation often occurs during the summer months, but in some cases animals may enter into a state of hibernation on warm days or during the dry season. Aestivation is an essential survival strategy for a wide variety of species and is an important part of the natural world.