Behavioural attitudes and regulation of temperature in Amphibolurus lizards

摘要: The contribution of discrete behavioural attitudes towards temperature regulation has been studied, both in the field and laboratory, five species Agamid lizards genus Amphibolurus. This radiated widely arid semi-arid areas Australia selected for study were chosen to represent, as closely possible, range habitats occupied by genus. Behaviour patterns thought be significance have characterized thermally terms mean body set environmental temperatures at which they observed. When comparisons are made between specificities similar analogous behaviour displayed from different habitats, few significant differences emerge. Thus, desert-living show no greater tolerance grossly elevated than do less severe when similarly acclimated, although former exposed daily much those prevailing sub-humid habitats. Selection ability tolerate increased therefore does not appear operated genus, due efficacy thermoregulatory these lizards. All species, however, depend upon presence thermal refuges their survival during hottest periods day, this is especially so inhabiting very hot dry Desert-inhabiting also obliged spend considerable day high-temperature avoidance thus forced endure long exposures above preferred activity. Short-term acclimatory adjustments assist animals surviving exposure. situation with Amphibolurus contrasts strongly that found other agamids, such Diporophora, unable avoid effectively heat an high far excess most thermophilic species.