Date of Award:

5-1-1978

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Biology

Department name when degree awarded

Life Sciences:Biology

Committee Chair(s)

James A. Gessaman

Committee

James A. Gessaman

Committee

Keith L. Dixon

Committee

John C. Malechek

Abstract

A positive, linear relationship of heart rate to metabolic rate, as measured by oxygen consumption, was demonstrated in each of seven pigeons (Columba livia). The linear regression equations which describe this relationship were pooled to yield two equations from each of two trials, six weeks apart. A significant shift in the slopes of these lines occurred within the 6-week period between trials. V02 - air temperature data extrapolated to a body temperature of 40.7°C at zero metabolism and thermal conductance of -0.23. The individual regression equations were used in conjunction with average 24-hour heart rate to predict the existence metabolism (EM) of these same pigeons measured in each of three food consumption trials. Predicted EM values averaged 41.7 ± 7.1% higher than measured values for all data, although a very close correspondence between predicted and measured EM was observed in the spring (5 out of 20 measurements). Measured EM was 34.7 ± 2.2% above predicted levels of basal metabolic rate (BMR) and 28.1 ± 3.7% below estimates of EM based on body weight. The ability of the heart rate - V02 relationship to predict EM is influenced by psychological stimulation, the actual level of EM, and seasonal factors.

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