Physiology and Behavior Influence Lactation Efficiency in Northern Elephant Seals (Mirounga angustirostris)

摘要: Abstract The efficiency with which mothers convert acquired energy into milk is a key determinant of the magnitude parental investment in mammals; however, mechanisms underlying lactation are poorly understood. Investigations on northern elephant seals have shown efficiency, measured as proportion total expenditure that goes to pup milk, increases age. In cross‐sectional study physiological and behavioral determinants were investigated eight young seven prime (older) by conducting observations collecting blood, tissue days 3 22 lactation. Milk composition, circulating fatty acid triglyceride concentrations, mammary blubber lipoprotein lipase activity determined. Prime females had significantly greater percent fat acids day than did females, but these differences disappeared 22. ability for female...