The thermoregulation system is used to regulate internal body temperature. The level at which the body is regulated is called homeostasis, this is the state in which the body is at its equilibrium. Some of the main components of the thermoregulatory system are the skin (feathers), the cardiovascular system, and the brain. Emperor Penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) are endothermic, meaning they produce heat internally despite environmental temperatures. Their internal body temperature varies between 35 and 41 degrees Celsius. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Emperor penguins are found in Antarctica, their surrounding environmental temperature varies between -60 and 0 degrees. Their thermoregulation system is a key aspect of their survival as without it they would not be able to live in the harsh climate of Antarctica. The emperor penguin's feathers play a very important role in thermoregulation. The scaled feathers provide insulation and protection to the penguin from the outside environment. During the cold winter months penguins ruffle their feathers to trap heat and provide insulation to their bodies. In addition to layers of feathers, emperor penguins have a number of adaptive advantages that allow them to minimize heat loss during the breeding season. The emperor penguin has the ability to reuse some of its body heat. Their nasal cavities can recover up to 80% of the heat that may be lost during exhalation. This means that emperor penguins don't have to use as much energy to recover heat and regulate their internal body temperature. Emperor penguins also have very special feet. To minimize contact with the ice, emperor penguins constantly stand on their sturdy feet equipped with strong claws which are used to help the penguins grip the ice to avoid slipping. The slightest contact with the ice means that the Penguins do not lose too much heat. During cold temperatures, blood flow to the feet is low, decreasing heat loss. The emperor penguin's circulatory system also helps them maintain thermoregulation and homeostasis. Their arteries and veins are very close to each other, so the blood is cooled on its way to the penguins' extremities and warmed on its way to the penguin's heart. The nervous system works in conjunction with the endocrine system to control the body and maintain homeostasis. The autonomic nervous system works with the circulatory system to control how blood vessels are open and closed, allowing heat to be released from the body or the body to warm up. The nervous system may also allow the penguin to acquire additional heat from muscle movements, such as shivering. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Keep Cool: During the summer (December to February) Emperor penguins are at risk of overheating. The temperature of penguins can exceed 39 degrees Celsius. Penguins can lose heat in many ways to help maintain thermoregulation and homeostasis. Emperor penguins can vigorously ruffle their feathers, breaking down the insulating layers allowing heat to escape. Feather ruffling is caused by the nervous system working to maintain a stable internal temperature, which is necessary for homeostasis. Emperor penguins can also lose heat by keeping their fins and feet away from their bodies and exposed to the air allowing heat to escape. When the ambient temperature is warm,.