Water and energy metabolism in free-living multi-mammate mice,Praomys natalensis, during summer
Open Access
- 1 January 1987
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Taylor & Francis in South African Journal of Zoology
- Vol. 22 (1) , 14-17
- https://doi.org/10.1080/02541858.1987.11448014
Abstract
A population of Praomys natalensis in a grassland area of Natal, South Africa, was studied to establish water and energy metabolism using isotope turnover techniques. Mean rate of water influx was 215,3 ml/kg day and efflux was 212,9 ± 64,3 ml/kg day. Mean CO2 production was 3,0 ml/g h i.e. an energy expenditure of 1512 kJ/kg day. It is estimated that each P. natalensis ingests about 100 g of dry matter/kg day. The high water flux rates in P. natalensis are discussed in relation to diet and climate. Water turnover and CO2 production are compared with those of other small free-living mammals.Keywords
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