The relative importance of behavioral and physiological adjustments controlling body temperature in terrestrial ectotherms.

Abstract

In environments where solar radiation is available, behavioural mechanisms may provide a range of body temperatures (Tb's) that is many times greater than the range in Tb's that results from physiological adjustments. Among behavioural mechanisms, the times of seasonal and daily activity appear to be the most critical in determining Tb. Microhabitat selection is more important than postural adjustments for controlling Tb. -from Author