Together, organisms make use of the circadian rhythm to derive maximum benefit from temporarily available resources. In addition to regulating sleep, it also affects the physiology, endocrine system and behaviour of organisms. The activity levels of both diurnal and nocturnal organisms are governed by the circadian rhythm.Ī self-sustaining oscillation, the circadian cycle in living organisms has a period of roughly over 24 hours. Meanwhile, many nocturnal organisms spend the daytime catching up on some shuteye or grooming. Bats on the other hand, emit constant streams of high-pitched noises that bounce off objects to assist them in navigation in the dark. Saucer-like eyes that allow maximum light are distinctive in characteristic nocturnal organisms such as owls and loris.

Nocturnal organisms typically possess enhanced eyesight, hearing and smell to compensate for the lack of light. What biological factors administer to the internal clocks and what are the differences between diurnal and nocturnal circadian rhythms? With heightened senses most appropriate for nighttime, nocturnal organisms enjoy a multitude of advantages – most importantly a reduction in the direct competition for food.

Organisms most active in the daytime are diurnal, humans included, whereas nocturnal organisms come alive at night. Circadian rhythm, or circadian clock, is an internal biological clock that regulates sleeping and feeding patterns, as well as a whole host of other biological functions in all living organisms.

What is the opposite of nocturnal