An Interspecific Assessment of Bergmann's Rule in Tenebrionid Beetles (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) along an Elevation Gradient.

ABSTRACT: In endotherms, body size tends to increase with elevation and latitude (i.e., with decreasing temperatures) (Bergmann's rule). These patterns are explained in terms of heat balance since larger animals need to produce less heat relative to their size to maintain stable body temperatures. In ectotherms like most insects, where this mechanism cannot operate, a reverse pattern is frequently observed, as a higher surface area-to-volume ratio in colder climates may allow for more rapid heating and cooling. However, patterns of increasing body size with decreasing temperatures can also be observed in ectotherms if selection for more stable internal temperatures leads to smaller surface area-to-volume ratios. Data on tenebrionids from Latium (Central Italy) were used to model elevational variatio

SUBMITTER: Fattorini S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11432099 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature