Biology ETDs

Publication Date

12-1-1973

Abstract

Renal efficiencies were determined in five species of Peromyscus: P. maniculatus rufinus, P. leucopus tornillio, P. boylii rowleyi, P. difficilis nasutus, and P. t. truei. The animals were treated at three levels of drinking water availability: ad libitum, one-half ad libitum, and deprivation. At each regimen urine osmolality, urine urea concentration, plasma concentration, urine volume, and animal weight were determined. Effects of the water stresses on these parameters are discussed.

During the most stressful regimen (water deprivation) P.maniculatus, P. leucopus and P.boylii had averageurine concentrations of 3950, 4100, and 4100 mOsmols/ kg H2o respectively. Average concentrations for P.difficilis and P. truei were 4450 and 4700 mOsmols respectively. The value for P. truei was significantly higher than that for all species except P. difficilis. The average concentration from P. maniculatus was significantly lower than that of the two aforementioned species.

Disparities in renal efficiencies within this group could be explained by any of three possible conditions; (1) differences in their microclimate, (2) differences in the amount of free water in their diet, or (3) differences in rates of pulmocutaneous water loss. Lack of knowledge about these parameters makes a claim of a direct relationship between habitat aridity and renal efficiency presumptious.

Peromyscus species dependent on drinking water in the laboratory have urine concentrations as great as those recorded for many rodents that do not drink. Three arguments why some of the xeric-adapted rodents have more efficient kidneys than suggested by the recorded data are discussed.

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Biology

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

UNM Biology Department

First Committee Member (Chair)

James Smith Findley

Second Committee Member

J. David Ligon

Third Committee Member

Loren David Potter

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