Activity 2

Frillneck lizards, the dragon lizards (Lophognathus) and the spotted tree monitor (Varanus scalaris) have substantially depressed metabolic rates during prolonged periods of dry conditions. However, these animals move around (although they are less active than other times of the year), they thermoregulate (although to lower temperatures), and they feed (although they eat only about half as much as during other times of the year). Is this still estivation?

The three lizard species mentioned above select lower body temperatures during the day in the dry season compared to the wet season, but they nevertheless maintain body temperatures higher than the coolest temperatures available to them. If the main purpose of this thermoregulartory shift is to conserve energy, then why do these animals not stay as cool as possible and conserve the maximum amount of energy.

Add your ideas about this to the Discussion Board.

 

 

 

 

Animal Responses to Seasonal Change

• Hibernation and Estivation
• Behavioural Adaptations
• Physiological Adaptations
• Seasonal Energy Budgets

Consequences of Climate Change to Animals

• An Overview

Activities

• Activity 2
• Activity 3
• Activity 4

Assessment

• Please complete this assessment item by the end of week 5. It accounts for 35% of your unit grade.