Active and resting metabolism in birds: allometry, phylogeny and ecology

摘要: Variation in resting metabolic rate is strongly correlated with differences body weight among birds. The lowest taxonomic level at which most of the variance and evident for sample families within orders. allometric exponent across family points 0.67. This accords surface area interpretation scaling based on considerations heat loss. Deviations from this line are used to examine how rates differ taxa, whether variation broad ecology behaviour. Despite strong correlation between weight, there evidence adaptive departures line, possible selective forces discussed. The active compared that rate. exponents two levels energy expenditure differ, demonstrating small-bodied birds require proportionately more per unit time above than do large-bodied No consistent was found indicate different methods estimate result systematic bias. Birds relative size when undertaking breeding activities other stages annual cycle.