THERMAL BALANCE OF MACROPODID MARSUPIAL MACROPUS EUGENII DESMAREST

1. 1. The heat balance of the tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii Marsupialia) was determined at various environmental temperatures. 2. 2. Heat production, as calculated from oxygen consumption was 30-35 per cent below the predicted level for a eutherian of similar size. 3. 3. At low air temperatures body temperature was maintained by relatively low heat loss and a high critical temperature. 4. 4. Evaporative heat loss at high temperatures was mainly accomplished via panting. Licking also occurred at high temperatures but this was shown to be an inefficient use of water for heat loss. © 1969.