Coevolution of body size and metabolic rate in vertebrates: a life-history perspective.

ABSTRACT: Despite many decades of research, the allometric scaling of metabolic rates (MRs) remains poorly understood. Here, we argue that scaling exponents of these allometries do not themselves mirror one universal law of nature but instead statistically approximate the non-linearity of the relationship between MR and body mass. This 'statistical' view must be replaced with the life-history perspective that 'allows' organisms to evolve myriad different life strategies with distinct physiological features. We posit that the hypoallometric allometry of MRs (mass scaling with an exponent smaller than 1) is an indirect outcome of the selective pressure of ecological mortality on allocation 'decisions' that divide resources among growth, reproduction, and the basic metabolic costs of repair and mainten

SUBMITTER: Kozlowski J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7540708 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature