Re: CROCODYLOMORPH ENDOTHERMY

[grenard@herpmed.com]

The point is that three chambered hearts
which result in venous admixture are better suited to organisms 
which can regulate their metabolism in response to their needs and
oxygenated blood availability. Ectotherms can do this, 
endotherms cannot. Since they cant regulate their body temperatures
(although they try by basking, lying on warm surfaces, using
radiating fins or other body parts ... crocs bask and then enter
and leave the water to cool off) they can adjust their metabolic demands.
Endotherms cannot control their metabolism in this way. 

I have never heard that the mammal, the naked mole rat, is an
ectotherm and will try and find out more information. I suppose
the Jackson labs would be a place to start. Will let you know what
I find out.




-------------------------------------
Steve Grenard
E-mail: grenard@herpmed.com
http://www.herpmed.com/
POB 40825 - Staten Island NY 10304-0825 USA
Telephone/Fax/Messages: 1-718-4476144


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