Geometrical aspects of the energetic effectivenes of huddling in small mammals

Abstract

Reduced energy expenditure resulting from huddling in small mammals is mainly attributed to the reduced surface area/volume ratio of the huddling group. Authors propose a model to account for the reduction of the relative exposed area of grouped animals anf for the diminution of metabolic rate during huddling. Authors attempt to expain mechanistically how changes in energy savings may operate. Authors applied model to results obtained by grouping deformable bodies, and also laboratory measurements of oxygen consumption on huddling small mammals of four species.