Flood-induced multiday torpor in golden spiny mice (Acomys russatus)

Author(s)
Barak, Orly
Geiser, Fritz
Kronfeld-Schor, Noga
Publication Date
2018
Abstract
<p>Mammalian and avian torpor is widely viewed as an adaptation for survival of cold winters. However, in recent years it has been established that torpor can also be expressed in summer and that the functions of torpor are manyfold, including survival of adverse environmental events such as fires, storms, heat waves and droughts. Here we provide the first evidence on (1) torpor induction via an accidental flooding event in mammals (in captivity) and (2) expression of multiday torpor by spiny mice, lasting >7 times as long as usually observed for this desert rodent. Our data suggest yet another function of mammalian torpor, as a response to flood, in addition to many other adverse environmental events, and not just in response to cold.</p>
Citation
Australian Journal of Zoology, 66(6), p. 401-405
ISSN
1446-5698
0004-959X
Link
Language
en
Publisher
CSIRO Publishing
Title
Flood-induced multiday torpor in golden spiny mice (Acomys russatus)
Type of document
Journal Article
Entity Type
Publication

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