Rate of metabolism and temperature regulation in two small tropical insectivorous bats (peropteryx macrotis and natalus tumidirostris)

Abstract

Abstract 1. 1. The rate of metabolism and temperature regulation of the small (5g) insectivorous bats Peropteryx macrotis (Emballonuridae) and Natalus tumidirostris (Natalidae) were studied. 2. 2. These bats have different basal rates of metabolism (102 vs 69% of the value predicted on the basis of body mass), thermal conductances (120 vs 92% of expected), and body temperatures during nonnothermic rest (on average 34.4 vs 32.2°C). 3. 3. Both species occasionally decrease their T b when exposed to cool temperatures. 4. 4. Thermal conditions at the roost and the availability of food and water may explain the observed BMR differences.