Influence of seasonal temperatures on the energy budget and metabolic rates of the northern two-lined salamander Eurycea bislineata bislineata

Abstract

1. 1. Rates of ingestion, egestion, assimilation, respiration and production were measured at 5, 10, 15, and 20°C in Eurycea bislineata acclimated at these temperatures. 2. 2. Patterns of partial metabolic (O 2 consumption rates) compensation to short-term changes in temperatures and acclimation are adaptive and correspond to thermal conditions in the salamander's northeastern Ohio ravine habitats. 3. 3. These patterns are compared with those for other salamander species and differences reflect differences in their respective habitats. 4. 4. Effects of temperature on the rates of ingestion, egestion, assimilation, respiration and production indicate that the optimal temperature range for E. bislineata is 15–20°C.