Blood Chemistry Regulation during Repetitive Diving in Weddell Seals

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Abstract
During serial diving periods in Weddell seals, whole-blood lactate and glucose levels do not indicate a metabolic demand for extended recovery time at the surface. In fact, in some rare cases, the seals continue to dive even if blood lactate is elevated from a previous long dive. In addition, hematocrit (Hct) levels increase significantly and remain elevated until the dive bout has ended. These combined responses indicate that the seal will maximize its foraging time underwater by establishing a diving routine that does not significantly alter its blood chemistry. Instead, by minimizing blood glucose and lactate variations, occasionally continuing to dive in spite of excess blood lactate levels, and enhancing its blood oxygen carrying capacity, the seal can minimize time at the surface. These behavioral and metabolic correlates are unique observations on how seals can dive repetitively for hours or even days.

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