ESTIVATION IN SOUTH-AMERICAN AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES

摘要: A number of amphibians and reptiles have cyclic behavior, becoming inactive with the coming dry season. In South America this pattern activity is common, particularly in savannah-like vegetation. During season burrow into mud or soil, either form a cocoon increase osmotic concentration body fluids to reduce evaporative water loss. Some phyllomedusid tree frogs coat their surface skin secretion excrete uric acid minimize Reptiles also retreat shelter deep enough avoid temperature fluctuation during estivation metabolic response temperature. Reduction sensitivity metabolism seems be strategy common estivating reptiles. Despite seasonal change environment, some species are active all year round.