Body Fat Content and Metabolic Rate of Rodents: Desert and Mountain 1

Abstract

Summary

Fifteen species of rodents representing three families and a wide range of ecologic distribution were used to investigate relationships between body fat and metabolic rates (Vo₂). There was no apparent relationship between fat content and Vo₂. The correlation between Vo₂, body weight, body water and fat free body weight was essentially the same. Ecologic distribution appears to be of more importance than fat content in modification of Vo₂.