Abstract
1.
1. The standard metabolic rate (SMR) of
Acanthodactylus boskianus was determined at 20, 25, 30 and 35°C during winter and summer acclimatization, using constant pressure manometric respirometers.
2.
2. Values for the exponent
b of body mass in relation to metabolic rate ranged from 0.50 to 0.63.
3.
3. Winter-acclimatized lizards of various body sizes had significantly higher SMRs than summer-acclimatized lizards at tested temperatures.
4.
4. The seasonal differences in metabolic rate may represent a useful adaptation, enabling
A. boskianus to maintain activity during the moderate winter, and to conserve energy and possibly also water during the hot summer.