Water metabolism in the Namib Desert golden mole, Eremitalpa granti namibensis (Chrysochloridae).
1. Laboratory and field studies of energy and water metabolism employing isotopic dilution methods examined the ability of Namib Desert moles to survive on an insect diet without drinking water. 2. Water independence is achieved through efficient renal function while low rates of energy usage and torpor are further effective in reducing overall water requirements.
Fielden
L J
LJ
Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
Perrin
M R
MR
Hickman
G C
GC
D000349:Africa; D000818:Animals; D001823:Body Composition / Q000502:physiology; D001834:Body Water / Q000378:metabolism*; D003889:Desert Climate; D004734:Energy Metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D007312:Eulipotyphla / Q000378:metabolism*; D007668:Kidney / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D008971:Moles / Q000378:metabolism*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013712:Tenebrio; D014316:Tritium
D014316:Tritium