Thermoregulation and oxygen consumption in Kirk's dik-dik (Madoqua kirkii) at ambient temperatures of 10–45°C

Abstract

1.

1. Thermoregulatory and metabolic responses of dik-dik (Madoqua kirkii) were measured over an ambient temperature (Ta) range of 10–45°C. 2.

2. The lower critical temperature was estimated at Ta 25°C. 3.

3. At Ta 40 and 45°C, dik-dik panted and oxygen consumption fell below that measured at thermoneutrality. 4.

4. The dik-dik appears well adapted to a high Ta but can cope with a low Ta only at a high metabolic cost.

∗

Present address: Department of Physiology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia.