Assigning metabolic rate measurements to torpor and euthermy in heterothermic endotherms: 'torpor', a new package for R.

ABSTRACT: Torpor is a state of controlled reduction of metabolic rate (M) in endotherms. Assigning measurements of M to torpor or euthermy can be challenging, especially when the difference between euthermic M and torpid M is small, in species defending a high minimal body temperature in torpor, in thermolabile species, and slightly below the thermoneutral zone (TNZ). Here, we propose a novel method for distinguishing torpor from euthermy. We use the variation in M measured during euthermic rest and torpor at varying ambient temperatures (Ta) to objectively estimate the lower critical temperature (Tlc) of the TNZ and to assign measurements to torpor, euthermic rest or rest within TNZ. In addition, this method allows the prediction of M during euthermic rest and torpor at varying Ta, including restin

SUBMITTER: Fasel NJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9002798 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature