Prolonged and daily torpor in the feathertail glider, Acrobates pygmaeus (Marsupialia: Acrobatidae)

Abstract

Deep and prolonged torpor in marsupials is only known from the pygmy possums, family Burramyidae. We investigated the pattern of torpor in the feathertail glider Acrobates pygmaeus (Acrobatidae) to determine whether members of other marsupial families also possess the ability of remaining torpid for several days with body temperatures (Tb) approaching 0°C. At high air temperatures (Ta) of 15 and 20°C, A. pygmaeus usually exhibited daily torpor. Torpor bouts at Ta 12°C usually lasted for about 2˙5 days and at Ta 8°C up to 5˙5 days. The metabolic rate during torpor was reduced to about 1% of that in normothermic, resting individuals. The Tb during torpor was regulated at about 2°C when Ta fell below about 0˙8 °C. Arousal from torpor was rapid and the mean fastest rewarming rate was 0˙88°C/min. While A. pygmaeus exhibited deep and prolonged torpor, its pattern differed somewhat from deep hibernation. Acrobates pygmaeus did not show prehibernation fattening and a subsequent prolonged hibernation period and it appears that prolonged torpor is used only in emergency situations.