PHOTOPERIODIC EFFECTS ON THERMOREGULATION IN A BLIND SUBTERRANEAN MAMMAL

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 107  (NOV) , 59-64
Abstract
Thermoregulatory responses to changes in photoperiod were studied in the blind mole rat Spalax ehrenbergi (Nehring). Acclimation of cold-sensitive individuals to short photoperiod (8L:16D [light:dark]) at an ambient temperature (Ta) of 22.degree. C increased their thermoregulatory capacity in cold conditions, when compared to individuals which were acclimated to a photoperiod of 12L:12D at the same Ta. Acclimation of cold-resistant individuals to Ta = 17.degree. C but with a photoperiod of 16L:8D caused a decrease in thermoregulatory capacity. Evaluation of the visual pathway through the visual-evoked potentials showed that the mole rat does not respond to flash stimuli and can thus be considered to be effectively blind.