Metabolic rate and respiratory gas-exchange patterns in tenebrionid beetles from the Negev Highlands, Israel

• DOI: 10.1242/jeb.205.6.791
• Publication Date: 2021-04-25T04:52:09Z
• Authors: Frances D. Duncan; Boris Krasnov; Megan McMaster
• Keywords: Diel vertical migration; Crepuscular; Respirometry

SUMMARY This study correlates the pattern of external gas exchange with diel activity nine species tenebrionid beetle from Negev Desert, Israel. The are active throughout summer months when daytime temperatures high and no rain falls. There were differences in standard metabolic rate, determined by flow-through respirometry, among species. All nocturnally beetles exhibited a form continuous respiration, whereas two diurnally one crepuscular cyclic respiration referred to as discontinuous gas-exchange cycle (DGC). DGCs recorded have long flutter period consisting miniature ventilations, 29–48 % total CO2 output occurred during this period. In study, played an important role modulation contrast other studies which burst has been shown be important. We suggest that is reducing respiratory water loss arid-dwelling arthropods. lends support hypothesis need minimise dessication because vapour pressure gradient they experience. If use underground burrows responsible for evolution exchange, then we would expect all since both bury sand periods inactivity. conclude patterns more than their habitat associations designating type used.