Heat and cold alter how animals fight disease. As the climate changes, this knowledge may be vital
- Written by Julie Old, Associate Professor in Biology, Zoology and Animal Science, Western Sydney University
Rotem Dozetas/GettyEach animal species has an optimal temperature at which it can metabolise food and its immune system can best fight off pathogens.
As our recent research shows, temperature directly affects the immune systems of vertebrates – regardless of how they moderate their own body temperatures. At first, slightly hotter...





