The Case of the Missing Mechanism: How Does Temperature Influence Seasonal Timing in Endotherms?

Samuel P. Caro, Sonja V. Schaper, Roelof A. Hut, Gregory F. Ball, Marcel E. Visser

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

59 Scopus citations

Abstract

Temperature has a strong effect on the seasonal timing of life-history stages in both mammals and birds, even though these species can regulate their body temperature under a wide range of ambient temperatures. Correlational studies showing this effect have recently been supported by experiments demonstrating a direct, causal relationship between ambient temperature and seasonal timing. Predicting how endotherms will respond to global warming requires an understanding of the physiological mechanisms by which temperature affects the seasonal timing of life histories. These mechanisms, however, remain obscure. We outline a road map for research aimed at identifying the pathways through which temperature is translated into seasonal timing.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere1001517
JournalPLoS biology
Volume11
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2013
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

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