作者: Jitka Zelová , Radim Šumbera , Jan Okrouhlík , Hynek Burda
DOI: 10.1016/J.PHYSBEH.2009.10.007
关键词:
摘要: Searching for food by extensive digging is one of the most important aspects life subterranean rodents. We studied effect extrinsic (substrate quality) and intrinsic factors (sex body mass) upon cost burrowing, expressed as metabolic rate (DMR) in two African mole-rat species (Bathyergidae, Rodentia) with distinct social structures. The sexually dimorphic giant (Fukomys mechowii) a highly species, whereas almost monomorphic silvery (Heliophobius argenteocinereus) solitary bathyergid. Burrowing F. mechowii was more costly (DMR greater) than H. argenteocinereus, but there no difference burrowing speed between both species. DMR within particular dependent mass, independent sex. Different substrate quality had either yet it affected speed. conclude that less effective can be compensated joint workforce other family members. Alternatively, being digger, afford way life.