Advances in thermal physiology of diving marine mammals: The dual role of peripheral perfusion.

ABSTRACT: The ability to maintain a high core body temperature is a defining characteristic of all mammals, yet their diverse habitats present disparate thermal challenges that have led to specialized adaptations. Marine mammals inhabit a highly conductive environment. Their thermoregulatory capabilities far exceed our own despite having limited avenues of heat transfer. Additionally, marine mammals must balance their thermoregulatory demands with those associated with diving (i.e. oxygen conservation), both of which rely on cardiovascular adjustments. This review presents the progress and novel efforts in investigating marine mammal thermoregulation, with a particular focus on the role of peripheral perfusion. Early studies in marine mammal thermal physiology were primarily performed in the laborat

SUBMITTER: Favilla AB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9154795 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature