Body Size, Insulation, and Optimum Body Temperatures of Homeotherms

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine quantitatively the role of physical and physiological properties of homeotherms in the adaptation of these animals to their physical environment. A theoretical model is developed to describe the interaction of an animals body size and insulation with the physical characteristics of its environment and the role of all these factors in determining the metabolic rate, body temperature, and evaporative water-loss of the animal.