What are the disadvantages of being a ectothermic?

Answer 1

• requires a higher food intake than ectotherms, in order to maintain the constant internal body temperature.
• uses a higher metabolic rate, therefore the enzymes have to work at an ideal temperature, preferably optimum temp. This requires a high production of energy.

Answer 2

If the temperature is cold, ectothermic organisms have to keep themselves warm in the sun. If it gets hot, they might find shade or hit the water. So, ectotherms have to regulate their body temps according to the environment.