1
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Pu Z, Guo Y. Autumn migration of black-necked crane ( Grus nigricollis) on the Qinghai-Tibetan and Yunnan-Guizhou plateaus. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10492. [PMID: 37693936 PMCID: PMC10485337 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite previous research efforts, the majority migration routes of the black-necked cranes (Grus nigricollis) have remained veiled. In this study, we utilized satellite telemetry data from 45 cranes between 2015 and 2021 to unveil critical insights. Our results revealed 11 distinct autumn migration routes and one sedentary flock, of which eight routes and the sedentary flock were previously undocumented. Our findings highlighted the remarkable diversity in the migration routes of black-necked cranes, especially in terms of migration orientations, spatial-temporal patterns, and altitudinal movement patterns. Cranes breeding on the eastern, northern, and central Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau migrated southward, while those on the northern slopes of the Himalayas migrated eastward, westward, northward, or opted to remain sedentary. Moreover, we expanded the known range of migration distances to 84-1520 km at both ends (excluding sedentary individuals) and identified two long-term (Da Qaidam and Chaka) and one short-term (Gyatong grassland) stopover sites. Furthermore, our study revealed that the breeding colonies in the Qilian Mountains on the northeastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau utilized long-term stopover sites before embarking on significant altitude ascent, while other flocks displayed more urgent migration patterns, preferring to roost only at night. By unveiling the near-complete autumn migration routes of black-necked cranes, our research has contributed to discovering the critical habitats and connectivity among various breeding colonies, which is instrumental in developing effective seasonal conservation plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Pu
- School of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yumin Guo
- School of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
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2
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Sur M, Hall JC, Brandt J, Astell M, Poessel SA, Katzner TE. Supervised versus unsupervised approaches to classification of accelerometry data. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10035. [PMID: 37206689 PMCID: PMC10191777 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Sophisticated animal-borne sensor systems are increasingly providing novel insight into how animals behave and move. Despite their widespread use in ecology, the diversity and expanding quality and quantity of data they produce have created a need for robust analytical methods for biological interpretation. Machine learning tools are often used to meet this need. However, their relative effectiveness is not well known and, in the case of unsupervised tools, given that they do not use validation data, their accuracy can be difficult to assess. We evaluated the effectiveness of supervised (n = 6), semi-supervised (n = 1), and unsupervised (n = 2) approaches to analyzing accelerometry data collected from critically endangered California condors (Gymnogyps californianus). Unsupervised K-means and EM (expectation-maximization) clustering approaches performed poorly, with adequate classification accuracies of <0.8 but very low values for kappa statistics (range: -0.02 to 0.06). The semi-supervised nearest mean classifier was moderately effective at classification, with an overall classification accuracy of 0.61 but effective classification only of two of the four behavioral classes. Supervised random forest (RF) and k-nearest neighbor (kNN) machine learning models were most effective at classification across all behavior types, with overall accuracies >0.81. Kappa statistics were also highest for RF and kNN, in most cases substantially greater than for other modeling approaches. Unsupervised modeling, which is commonly used for the classification of a priori-defined behaviors in telemetry data, can provide useful information but likely is instead better suited to post hoc definition of generalized behavioral states. This work also shows the potential for substantial variation in classification accuracy among different machine learning approaches and among different metrics of accuracy. As such, when analyzing biotelemetry data, best practices appear to call for the evaluation of several machine learning techniques and several measures of accuracy for each dataset under consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maitreyi Sur
- Conservation Science Global, Inc.West Cape MayNew JerseyUSA
- Present address:
Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences (RIBES)Radboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Jonathan C. Hall
- Department of BiologyEastern Michigan UniversityYpsilantiMichiganUSA
| | - Joseph Brandt
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hopper Mountain National Wildlife Refuge ComplexVenturaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Molly Astell
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hopper Mountain National Wildlife Refuge ComplexVenturaCaliforniaUSA
- Department of BiologyBoise State UniversityBoiseIdahoUSA
| | - Sharon A. Poessel
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science CenterBoiseIdahoUSA
| | - Todd E. Katzner
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science CenterBoiseIdahoUSA
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3
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Chromosome-level genome assembly of the bar-headed goose (Anser indicus). Sci Data 2022; 9:668. [PMID: 36329062 PMCID: PMC9633837 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01801-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Bar-headed geese (Anser indicus) are adaptable to plateau environments. In this study, we sequenced and assembled a high-quality chromosome-level genome of the bar-headed goose using PacBio long reads and Hi-C technique, and generated 115.73 Gb of Illumina short-reads and 95.89 Gb of PacBio long-reads. The assembled bar-headed goose genome, with a contig N50 of 5.734 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 65.77 Mb, is 1.129 Gb in length and includes 33 chromosomes and 451 fragments. BUSCO assessment yielded a completeness score of 94.4%. In total, 15,376 protein-coding genes were predicted, of which 94.95% had homologs in protein databases. We identified 78 positively selected genes (PSGs) in the bar-headed goose genome, which were mainly enriched in calcium ion and ATP-binding. This bar-headed goose genome will be an important resource for increasing our understanding regarding the genetic basis of adaptation to life at a high altitude.
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4
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Flack A, Aikens EO, Kölzsch A, Nourani E, Snell KR, Fiedler W, Linek N, Bauer HG, Thorup K, Partecke J, Wikelski M, Williams HJ. New frontiers in bird migration research. Curr Biol 2022; 32:R1187-R1199. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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5
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Krishnan K, Garde B, Bennison A, Cole NC, Cole EL, Darby J, Elliott KH, Fell A, Gómez-Laich A, de Grissac S, Jessopp M, Lempidakis E, Mizutani Y, Prudor A, Quetting M, Quintana F, Robotka H, Roulin A, Ryan PG, Schalcher K, Schoombie S, Tatayah V, Tremblay F, Weimerskirch H, Whelan S, Wikelski M, Yoda K, Hedenström A, Shepard ELC. The role of wingbeat frequency and amplitude in flight power. J R Soc Interface 2022; 19:20220168. [PMID: 36000229 PMCID: PMC9403799 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2022.0168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Body-mounted accelerometers provide a new prospect for estimating power use in flying birds, as the signal varies with the two major kinematic determinants of aerodynamic power: wingbeat frequency and amplitude. Yet wingbeat frequency is sometimes used as a proxy for power output in isolation. There is, therefore, a need to understand which kinematic parameter birds vary and whether this is predicted by flight mode (e.g. accelerating, ascending/descending flight), speed or morphology. We investigate this using high-frequency acceleration data from (i) 14 species flying in the wild, (ii) two species flying in controlled conditions in a wind tunnel and (iii) a review of experimental and field studies. While wingbeat frequency and amplitude were positively correlated, R2 values were generally low, supporting the idea that parameters can vary independently. Indeed, birds were more likely to modulate wingbeat amplitude for more energy-demanding flight modes, including climbing and take-off. Nonetheless, the striking variability, even within species and flight types, highlights the complexity of describing the kinematic relationships, which appear sensitive to both the biological and physical context. Notwithstanding this, acceleration metrics that incorporate both kinematic parameters should be more robust proxies for power than wingbeat frequency alone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Baptiste Garde
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8PP, UK
| | - Ashley Bennison
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 N73 K, Ireland
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nik C. Cole
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, La Profonde Rue, Jersey JE3 5BP, Jersey
| | - Emma-L. Cole
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8PP, UK
| | - Jamie Darby
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 N73 K, Ireland
| | - Kyle H. Elliott
- Department of Natural Resources Sciences, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adam Fell
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Agustina Gómez-Laich
- Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución and Instituto de Ecología, Genética Y Evolución de Buenos Aires (IEGEBA), CONICET, Pabellón II Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sophie de Grissac
- Diomedea Science – Research and Scientific Communication, 819 route de la Jars, 38 950 Quaix-en-Chartreuse, France
| | - Mark Jessopp
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 N73 K, Ireland
| | | | - Yuichi Mizutani
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Aurélien Prudor
- Centres d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé – CNRS, Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Michael Quetting
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
| | - Flavio Quintana
- Instituto de Biología de Organismos Marinos (IBIOMAR), CONICET, Boulevard Brown, 2915, U9120ACD, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | | | - Alexandre Roulin
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Building Biophore, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Peter G. Ryan
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Kim Schalcher
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Building Biophore, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Schoombie
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Vikash Tatayah
- Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Grannum Road, Vacoas 73418, Mauritius
| | - Fred Tremblay
- Department of Natural Resources Sciences, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Shannon Whelan
- Department of Natural Resources Sciences, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin Wikelski
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ken Yoda
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Anders Hedenström
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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6
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Environmental and social correlates, and energetic consequences of fitness maximisation on different migratory behaviours in a long-lived scavenger. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-022-03223-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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7
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Dawson NJ, Scott GR. Adaptive increases in respiratory capacity and O 2 affinity of subsarcolemmal mitochondria from skeletal muscle of high-altitude deer mice. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22391. [PMID: 35661419 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200219r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Aerobic energy demands have led to the evolution of complex mitochondrial reticula in highly oxidative muscles, but the extent to which metabolic challenges can be met with adaptive changes in physiology of specific mitochondrial fractions remains unresolved. We examined mitochondrial mechanisms supporting adaptive increases in aerobic performance in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) adapted to the hypoxic environment at high altitude. High-altitude and low-altitude mice were born and raised in captivity, and exposed as adults to normoxia or hypobaric hypoxia (12 kPa O2 for 6-8 weeks). Subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondria were isolated from the gastrocnemius, and a comprehensive substrate titration protocol was used to examine mitochondrial physiology and O2 kinetics by high-resolution respirometry and fluorometry. High-altitude mice had greater yield, respiratory capacity for oxidative phosphorylation, and O2 affinity (lower P50 ) of subsarcolemmal mitochondria compared to low-altitude mice across environments, but there were no species difference in these traits in intermyofibrillar mitochondria. High-altitude mice also had greater capacities of complex II relative to complexes I + II and higher succinate dehydrogenase activities in both mitochondrial fractions. Exposure to chronic hypoxia reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) emission in high-altitude mice but not in low-altitude mice. Our findings suggest that functional changes in subsarcolemmal mitochondria contribute to improving aerobic performance in hypoxia in high-altitude deer mice. Therefore, physiological variation in specific mitochondrial fractions can help overcome the metabolic challenges of life at high altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal J Dawson
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Graham R Scott
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Ste Marie E, Grémillet D, Fort J, Patterson A, Brisson-Curadeau É, Clairbaux M, Perret S, Speakman J, Elliott KH. Accelerating animal energetics: High dive costs in a small seabird disrupt the dynamic body acceleration - energy expenditure relationship. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:275487. [PMID: 35593255 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Accelerometry has been widely used to estimate energy expenditure in a broad array of terrestrial and aquatic species. However, a recent reappraisal of the method showed that relationships between dynamic body acceleration (DBA) and energy expenditure weaken as the proportion of non-mechanical costs increase. Aquatic air breathing species often exemplify this pattern, as buoyancy, thermoregulation and other physiological mechanisms disproportionately affect oxygen consumption during dives. Combining biologging with the doubly-labelled water method, we simultaneously recorded daily energy expenditure (DEE) and triaxial acceleration in one of the world's smallest wing-propelled breath-hold divers, the dovekie (Alle alle). These data were used to estimate the activity-specific costs of flying and diving and to test whether overall dynamic body acceleration (ODBA) is a reliable predictor of DEE in this abundant seabird. Average DEE for chick-rearing dovekies was 604±119 kJ/d across both sampling years. Despite recording lower stroke frequencies for diving than for flying (in line with allometric predictions for auks), dive costs were estimated to surpass flight costs in our sample of birds (flying: 7.24, diving: 9.37 X BMR). As expected, ODBA was not an effective predictor of DEE in this species. However, accelerometer-derived time budgets did accurately estimate DEE in dovekies. This work represents an empirical example of how the apparent energetic costs of buoyancy and thermoregulation limit the effectiveness of ODBA as the sole predictor of overall energy expenditure in small shallow-diving endotherms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Ste Marie
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Grémillet
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS - La Rochelle Université, Villiers-en-Bois, France.,Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Jérôme Fort
- Littoral, Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR7266 CNRS - La Rochelle Université, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Allison Patterson
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Émile Brisson-Curadeau
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Manon Clairbaux
- School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Sciences, University College Cork, Cork T23 N73K, Ireland
| | - Samuel Perret
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Montpellier
| | - John Speakman
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
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9
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Design and Verification of Large-Scaled Flapping Wings for High Altitude Environment. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12105140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Large-scaled flapping wings for high altitude environments have great potential for border patrol and biodiversity exploration due to their high flight efficiency and concealment. In this paper, wind tunnel experimental techniques, neural network models, and flight tests are implemented to optimize and validate the performance of flapping wings. Numerical simulation methods were used to give recommendations for the flight state of the vehicle at high altitudes. From sea level to 4000 m altitude, the Reynolds number was subsequently reduced by 27.98%, and the time-averaged lift, drag, and pitching moment decreased by 33.31%, 33.08%, and 33.33%, respectively. A combination of planform with an increase in the internal area of the wing, six wing ribs, and linen film material was selected for its moderate stiffness to generate at least 1300 g of lift and considerable positive thrust, making it easier to reach a trim state. For high altitude environments, the vehicle needs to increase its flight speed and frequency to compensate for the loss of lift and drag due to reduced air density, but this is at the cost of power consumption, which results in reduced endurance, as verified by flight tests. Finally, this study aims to provide guidance on the design of large-scaled flapping wings for high-altitude environments.
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10
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Sachs G. Powered-Gliding/Climbing Flight. J Theor Biol 2022; 547:111146. [PMID: 35487281 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2022.111146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A new flight mode in birds that decreases the energy costs by reducing the fuel consumption is described. This flight mode consists basically of a powered-glide phase and a climb phase. These phases constitute a cycle that is continually performed. The powered-glide phase shows a reduced wing flapping for generating thrust at an intermediate level. Other than a glide with a fixed wing posture, there is an energy support in the powered glide. It is shown that powered-gliding/flapping flight provides a high energy efficiency in terms of a low fuel consumption. The powered-glide phase is determinative for achieving the low fuel consumption. Based on this effect, powered-gliding/climbing flight shows the lowest fuel consumption per range when compared with any other travel flight mode. This implies that powered-gliding/climbing flight shows a lower fuel consumption than the best cruise flight at constant altitude or the best cruise climb. There are birds that show continual altitude changes in long-distance flights rather than flying at a constant altitude. There is evidence based on observations and measurements that the descents in these altitude changes take place as powered glides. This suggests that long-distance flights with altitude changes consist of powered-glide/flapping flight with repeated cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gottfried Sachs
- TUM Senior Excellence Faculty, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
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11
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Brown JM, Bouten W, Camphuysen KCJ, Nolet BA, Shamoun‐Baranes J. Acceleration as a proxy for energy expenditure in a facultative‐soaring bird: comparing dynamic body acceleration and time‐energy budgets to heart rate. Funct Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.14055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Morgan Brown
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics University of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Willem Bouten
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics University of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Kees C. J. Camphuysen
- Department of Coastal Systems NIOZ Royal Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University Texel The Netherlands
| | - Bart A. Nolet
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics University of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Animal Ecology Netherlands Institute of Ecology Wageningen The Netherlands
| | - Judy Shamoun‐Baranes
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics University of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
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12
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Black Kites on a flyway between Western Siberia and the Indian Subcontinent. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5581. [PMID: 35368027 PMCID: PMC8976839 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09246-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) is one of the most widespread raptors in the world. The Palaearctic is populated by two migrating subspecies, Milvus migrans migrans and Milvus migrans lineatus, in the western and eastern part of this realm, respectively. There is a large intergradation zone of M. m. migrans/M. m. lineatus in-between. Although the migration routes of M. m. migrans from Europe to Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East are well known, detailed information about migration routes of Black Kites from intergradation zone are missing. Using satellite telemetry we are able to fill this gap in our knowledge of these birds. We tagged with GPS/SMS/GPRS telemetry loggers 13 and 6 Black Kite pulli in lowland around Biysk (Altai Krai, Russia) and in mountains around Kosh-Agach (Altai Republic, Russia), respectively. After fledging, Black Kites from both subpopulations stayed in a small, non-overlapping areas and then migrated to southern Asia through narrow corridors. Black Kites originating from Biysk migrated through the Western Circum-Himalayan Corridor. Black Kites originating from Kosh-Agach used the Trans-Himalayan Corridor crossing the Himalayas in altitudes of up to 6256 m asl. The average total distance travelled of Black Kites from both subpopulations was 9166 km without any significant differences between these subpopulations. Timing of both spring and autumn migration did not vary along different age groups. Black Kites from both subpopulations wintered in low elevations of Pakistan and India. Birds wintered on average for 190 days, and the mean area of individual home ranges in winter was 4704 km2. During the breeding period, birds dwelled in south-western Siberia, where they spent on average 125 days with an average home range size 3537 km2. We found that ontogenetic shifts in migratory behaviour of Black Kites from Eastern Russia differ from those in population/subspecies in Europe. Black Kites crossing the Himalayas fly and, moreover, stay for hours resting at night in the environment of mountains at altitudes over 5000 m.
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13
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Schmaljohann H, Eikenaar C, Sapir N. Understanding the ecological and evolutionary function of stopover in migrating birds. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1231-1252. [PMID: 35137518 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Global movement patterns of migratory birds illustrate their fascinating physical and physiological abilities to cross continents and oceans. During their voyages, most birds land multiple times to make so-called 'stopovers'. Our current knowledge on the functions of stopover is mainly based on the proximate study of departure decisions. However, such studies are insufficient to gauge fully the ecological and evolutionary functions of stopover. If we study how a focal trait, e.g. changes in energy stores, affects the decision to depart from a stopover without considering the trait(s) that actually caused the bird to land, e.g. unfavourable environmental conditions for flight, we misinterpret the function of the stopover. It is thus important to realise and acknowledge that stopovers have many different functions, and that not every migrant has the same (set of) reasons to stop-over. Additionally, we may obtain contradictory results because the significance of different traits to a migrant is context dependent. For instance, late spring migrants may be more prone to risk-taking and depart from a stopover with lower energy stores than early spring migrants. Thus, we neglect that departure decisions are subject to selection to minimise immediate (mortality risk) and/or delayed (low future reproductive output) fitness costs. To alleviate these issues, we first define stopover as an interruption of migratory endurance flight to minimise immediate and/or delayed fitness costs. Second, we review all probable functions of stopover, which include accumulating energy, various forms of physiological recovery and avoiding adverse environmental conditions for flight, and list potential other functions that are less well studied, such as minimising predation, recovery from physical exhaustion and spatiotemporal adjustments to migration. Third, derived from these aspects, we argue for a paradigm shift in stopover ecology research. This includes focusing on why an individual interrupts its migratory flight, which is more likely to identify the individual-specific function(s) of the stopover correctly than departure-decision studies. Moreover, we highlight that the selective forces acting on stopover decisions are context dependent and are expected to differ between, e.g. K-/r-selected species, the sexes and migration strategies. For example, all else being equal, r-selected species (low survival rate, high reproductive rate) should have a stronger urge to continue the migratory endurance flight or resume migration from a stopover because the potential increase in immediate fitness costs suffered from a flight is offset by the expected higher reproductive success in the subsequent breeding season. Finally, we propose to focus less on proximate mechanisms controlling landing and departure decisions, and more on ultimate mechanisms to identify the selective forces shaping stopover decisions. Our ideas are not limited to birds but can be applied to any migratory species. Our revised definition of stopover and the proposed paradigm shift has the potential to stimulate a fruitful discussion towards a better evolutionary ecological understanding of the functions of stopover. Furthermore, identifying the functions of stopover will support targeted measures to conserve and restore the functionality of stopover sites threatened by anthropogenic environmental changes. This is especially important for long-distance migrants, which currently are in alarming decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiko Schmaljohann
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences (IBU), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, Oldenburg, 26129, Germany.,Institute of Avian Research, An der Vogelwarte 21, Wilhelmshaven, 26386, Germany
| | - Cas Eikenaar
- Institute of Avian Research, An der Vogelwarte 21, Wilhelmshaven, 26386, Germany
| | - Nir Sapir
- Department of Evolutionary and Environmental Biology and the Institute of Evolution, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
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14
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Cavedon M, vonHoldt B, Hebblewhite M, Hegel T, Heppenheimer E, Hervieux D, Mariani S, Schwantje H, Steenweg R, Theoret J, Watters M, Musiani M. Genomic legacy of migration in endangered caribou. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1009974. [PMID: 35143486 PMCID: PMC8830729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Wide-ranging animals, including migratory species, are significantly threatened by the effects of habitat fragmentation and habitat loss. In the case of terrestrial mammals, this results in nearly a quarter of species being at risk of extinction. Caribou are one such example of a wide-ranging, migratory, terrestrial, and endangered mammal. In populations of caribou, the proportion of individuals considered as "migrants" can vary dramatically. There is therefore a possibility that, under the condition that migratory behavior is genetically determined, those individuals or populations that are migratory will be further impacted by humans, and this impact could result in the permanent loss of the migratory trait in some populations. However, genetic determination of migration has not previously been studied in an endangered terrestrial mammal. We examined migratory behavior of 139 GPS-collared endangered caribou in western North America and carried out genomic scans for the same individuals. Here we determine a genetic subdivision of caribou into a Northern and a Southern genetic cluster. We also detect >50 SNPs associated with migratory behavior, which are in genes with hypothesized roles in determining migration in other organisms. Furthermore, we determine that propensity to migrate depends upon the proportion of ancestry in individual caribou, and thus on the evolutionary history of its migratory and sedentary subspecies. If, as we report, migratory behavior is influenced by genes, caribou could be further impacted by the loss of the migratory trait in some isolated populations already at low numbers. Our results indicating an ancestral genetic component also suggest that the migratory trait and their associated genetic mutations could not be easily re-established when lost in a population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cavedon
- Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bridgett vonHoldt
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Mark Hebblewhite
- Wildlife Biology Program, Department of Ecosystem and Conservation Sciences, College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Troy Hegel
- Yukon Department of Environment, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Heppenheimer
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Dave Hervieux
- Fish and Wildlife Stewardship Branch, Alberta Environment and Parks, Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stefano Mariani
- School of Natural Sciences and Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Schwantje
- Wildlife and Habitat Branch, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, Government of British Columbia, Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robin Steenweg
- Pacific Region, Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica Theoret
- Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Megan Watters
- Land and Resource Specialist, Fort St. John, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Marco Musiani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and Veterinary Medicine (Joint Appointment), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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15
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MI C, LI X, HUETTMANN F, GOROSHKO O, GUO Y. Time and energy minimization strategy codetermine the loop migration of demoiselle cranes around the Himalayas. Integr Zool 2022; 17:715-730. [DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chunrong MI
- School of Ecology and Nature Conservation Beijing Forestry University China
- Institute of Zoology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Xinhai LI
- Institute of Zoology Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Falk HUETTMANN
- Daursky State Nature Biosphere Reserve Institute of Nature Resources, Ecology and Cryology RAS Russia
| | - Oleg GOROSHKO
- EWHALE Lab, Department of Biology and Wildlife, Institute of Arctic Biology University of Alaska‐Fairbanks Fairbanks USA
| | - Yumin GUO
- School of Ecology and Nature Conservation Beijing Forestry University China
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16
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Garde B, Wilson RP, Fell A, Cole N, Tatayah V, Holton MD, Rose KAR, Metcalfe RS, Robotka H, Wikelski M, Tremblay F, Whelan S, Elliott KH, Shepard ELC. Ecological inference using data from accelerometers needs careful protocols. Methods Ecol Evol 2022; 13:813-825. [PMID: 35910299 PMCID: PMC9303593 DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.13804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Accelerometers in animal‐attached tags are powerful tools in behavioural ecology, they can be used to determine behaviour and provide proxies for movement‐based energy expenditure. Researchers are collecting and archiving data across systems, seasons and device types. However, using data repositories to draw ecological inference requires a good understanding of the error introduced according to sensor type and position on the study animal and protocols for error assessment and minimisation. Using laboratory trials, we examine the absolute accuracy of tri‐axial accelerometers and determine how inaccuracies impact measurements of dynamic body acceleration (DBA), a proxy for energy expenditure, in human participants. We then examine how tag type and placement affect the acceleration signal in birds, using pigeons Columba livia flying in a wind tunnel, with tags mounted simultaneously in two positions, and back‐ and tail‐mounted tags deployed on wild kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla. Finally, we present a case study where two generations of tag were deployed using different attachment procedures on red‐tailed tropicbirds Phaethon rubricauda foraging in different seasons. Bench tests showed that individual acceleration axes required a two‐level correction to eliminate measurement error. This resulted in DBA differences of up to 5% between calibrated and uncalibrated tags for humans walking at a range of speeds. Device position was associated with greater variation in DBA, with upper and lower back‐mounted tags varying by 9% in pigeons, and tail‐ and back‐mounted tags varying by 13% in kittiwakes. The tropicbird study highlighted the difficulties of attributing changes in signal amplitude to a single factor when confounding influences tend to covary, as DBA varied by 25% between seasons. Accelerometer accuracy, tag placement and attachment critically affect the signal amplitude and thereby the ability of the system to detect biologically meaningful phenomena. We propose a simple method to calibrate accelerometers that can be executed under field conditions. This should be used prior to deployments and archived with resulting data. We also suggest a way that researchers can assess accuracy in previously collected data, and caution that variable tag placement and attachment can increase sensor noise and even generate trends that have no biological meaning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adam Fell
- Department of Biosciences Swansea University Swansea UK
- Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Stirling Stirling UK
| | - Nik Cole
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust Jersey
| | | | | | | | - Richard S. Metcalfe
- Applied Sports Science, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A‐STEM) Swansea University Swansea UK
| | | | - Martin Wikelski
- Department of Migration Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior Germany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
| | - Fred Tremblay
- Department of Natural Resources Sciences McGill University Quebec
| | - Shannon Whelan
- Department of Natural Resources Sciences McGill University Quebec
| | - Kyle H. Elliott
- Department of Natural Resources Sciences McGill University Quebec
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17
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Portugal SJ, White CR. Externally attached biologgers cause compensatory body mass loss in birds. Methods Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.13754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J. Portugal
- Department of Biological Sciences School of Life and Environmental Sciences Royal Holloway University of London Egham UK
| | - Craig R. White
- School of Biological Sciences Monash University Clayton, Melbourne Vic. Australia
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18
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Norevik G, Åkesson S, Andersson A, Bäckman J, Hedenström A. Flight altitude dynamics of migrating European nightjars across regions and seasons. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:272593. [PMID: 34647575 PMCID: PMC8601712 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.242836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Avian migrants may fly at a range of altitudes, but usually concentrate near strata where a combination of flight conditions is favourable. The aerial environment can have a large impact on the performance of the migrant and is usually highly dynamic, making it beneficial for a bird to regularly check the flight conditions at alternative altitudes. We recorded the migrations between northern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa of European nightjars Caprimulgus europaeus to explore their altitudinal space use during spring and autumn flights and to test whether their climbs and descents were performed according to predictions from flight mechanical theory. Spring migration across all regions was associated with more exploratory vertical flights involving major climbs, a higher degree of vertical displacement within flights, and less time spent in level flight, although flight altitude per se was only higher during the Sahara crossing. The nightjars commonly operated at ascent rates below the theoretical maximum, and periods of descent were commonly undertaken by active flight, and rarely by gliding flight, which has been assumed to be a cheaper locomotion mode during descents. The surprisingly frequent shifts in flight altitude further suggest that nightjars can perform vertical displacements at a relatively low cost, which is expected if the birds can allocate potential energy gained during climbs to thrust forward movement during descents. The results should inspire future studies on the potential costs associated with frequent altitude changes and their trade-offs against anticipated flight condition improvements for aerial migrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Norevik
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 22362Lund, Sweden
| | - Susanne Åkesson
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 22362Lund, Sweden
| | - Arne Andersson
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 22362Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Bäckman
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 22362Lund, Sweden
| | - Anders Hedenström
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 22362Lund, Sweden
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19
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Clark TD, Cummings KJ, Schultz TJ. An exposé of Frappellian Motion. J Comp Physiol B 2021; 191:1125-1129. [PMID: 34523012 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-021-01404-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Contrary to the well-recognised role of an abstract in helping to summarise the main points of the following article, this abstract takes its influence from Peter B. Frappell ('Frapps') and, therefore, is distracted from its key purpose. While the abstract was supposed to discuss the serious phenomenon of 'Frappellian Motion' (FM), someone just passed along some gossip that is heaps more exciting, so "let's go grab a beer and I'll talk at you".
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Affiliation(s)
- T D Clark
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia.
| | - K J Cummings
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - T J Schultz
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
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20
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Polymeropoulos ET, Milsom WK. Editorial: Untangling the oxygen transport cascade: a tribute to Peter Frappell (Frapps). J Comp Physiol B 2021; 191:973-978. [PMID: 34463812 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-021-01401-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This collection of research articles was put together in honour of respiratory physiologist Professor Peter Frappell's (Frapps's) academic achievements. It encompasses various topics relating to the oxygen transport cascade, which was central to Frapps' career as a comparative physiologist. This issue highlights the diversity and outreach of his influence on the field and his pioneering spirit; promoting novel perspectives, methodologies and research techniques. This issue also demonstrates how Frapps' knowledge and scientific findings answered some of the fundamental questions within the field of respiratory physiology while creating and fostering a rather unique work atmosphere in the laboratories he led. We thank Frapps for the contributions he has made and the friendships he has nurtured over his career. Cheers, Frapps - we love you mate!
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias T Polymeropoulos
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia.
| | - William K Milsom
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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21
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Holton MD, Wilson RP, Teilmann J, Siebert U. Animal tag technology keeps coming of age: an engineering perspective. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200229. [PMID: 34176328 PMCID: PMC8237169 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal-borne tags (biologgers) have now become extremely sophisticated, recording data from multiple sensors at high frequencies for long periods and, as such, have become a powerful tool for behavioural ecologists and physiologists studying wild animals. But the design and implementation of these tags is not trivial because engineers have to maximize performance and ability to function under onerous conditions while minimizing tag mass and volume (footprint) to maximize the wellbeing of the animal carriers. We present some of the major issues faced by tag engineers and show how tag designers must accept compromises while maintaining systems that can answer the questions being posed. We also argue that basic understanding of engineering issues in tag design by biologists will help feedback to engineers to better tag construction but also reduce the likelihood that tag-deploying biologists will misunderstand their own results. Finally, we suggest that proper consideration of conventional technology together with new approaches will lead to further step changes in our understanding of wild-animal biology using smart tags. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part II)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Holton
- Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Rory P. Wilson
- Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
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22
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Harrison XA. A brief introduction to the analysis of time-series data from biologging studies. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200227. [PMID: 34176325 PMCID: PMC8237163 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in tagging and biologging technology have yielded unprecedented insights into wild animal physiology. However, time-series data from such wild tracking studies present numerous analytical challenges owing to their unique nature, often exhibiting strong autocorrelation within and among samples, low samples sizes and complicated random effect structures. Gleaning robust quantitative estimates from these physiological data, and, therefore, accurate insights into the life histories of the animals they pertain to, requires careful and thoughtful application of existing statistical tools. Using a combination of both simulated and real datasets, I highlight the key pitfalls associated with analysing physiological data from wild monitoring studies, and investigate issues of optimal study design, statistical power, and model precision and accuracy. I also recommend best practice approaches for dealing with their inherent limitations. This work will provide a concise, accessible roadmap for researchers looking to maximize the yield of information from complex and hard-won biologging datasets. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part II)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier A. Harrison
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
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23
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Williams HJ, Shipley JR, Rutz C, Wikelski M, Wilkes M, Hawkes LA. Future trends in measuring physiology in free-living animals. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200230. [PMID: 34176330 PMCID: PMC8237165 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Thus far, ecophysiology research has predominantly been conducted within controlled laboratory-based environments, owing to a mismatch between the recording technologies available for physiological monitoring in wild animals and the suite of behaviours and environments they need to withstand, without unduly affecting subjects. While it is possible to record some physiological variables for free-living animals using animal-attached logging devices, including inertial-measurement, heart-rate and temperature loggers, the field is still in its infancy. In this opinion piece, we review the most important future research directions for advancing the field of 'physiologging' in wild animals, including the technological development that we anticipate will be required, and the fiscal and ethical challenges that must be overcome. Non-invasive, multi-sensor miniature devices are ubiquitous in the world of human health and fitness monitoring, creating invaluable opportunities for animal and human physiologging to drive synergistic advances. We argue that by capitalizing on the research efforts and advancements made in the development of human wearables, it will be possible to design the non-invasive loggers needed by ecophysiologists to collect accurate physiological data from free-ranging animals ethically and with an absolute minimum of impact. In turn, findings have the capacity to foster transformative advances in human health monitoring. Thus, we invite biomedical engineers and researchers to collaborate with the animal-tagging community to drive forward the advancements necessary to realize the full potential of both fields. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part II)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. J. Williams
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, 78315 Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany
| | - J. Ryan Shipley
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, 78315 Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany
| | - C. Rutz
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9TH, UK
| | - M. Wikelski
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, 78315 Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464, Konstanz, Germany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - M. Wilkes
- Extreme Environments Research Group, University of Portsmouth, Spinnaker Building, Cambridge Road, Portsmouth PO1 2EF, UK
| | - L. A. Hawkes
- Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Exeter EX4 4PS, UK
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24
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Yap KN, Zhang Y. Revisiting the question of nucleated versus enucleated erythrocytes in birds and mammals. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R547-R557. [PMID: 34378417 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00276.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Erythrocyte enucleation is thought to have evolved in mammals to support their energetic cost of high metabolic activities. However, birds face similar selection pressure yet possess nucleated erythrocytes. Current hypotheses on the mammalian erythrocyte enucleation claim that the absence of cell organelles allows erythrocytes to 1) pack more hemoglobin into the cells to increase oxygen carrying capacity and 2) decrease erythrocyte size for increased surface area-to-volume ratio, and improved ability to traverse small capillaries. In this article, we first empirically tested current hypotheses using both conventional and phylogenetically informed analysis comparing literature values of mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean cell volume (MCV) between 181 avian and 194 mammalian species. We found no difference in MCHC levels between birds and mammals using both conventional and phylogenetically corrected analysis. MCV was higher in birds than mammals according to conventional analysis, but the difference was lost when we controlled for phylogeny. These results suggested that avian and mammalian erythrocytes may employ different strategies to solve a common problem. To further investigate existing hypotheses or develop new hypothesis, we need to understand the functions of various organelles in avian erythrocytes. Consequently, we covered potential physiological functions of various cell organelles in avian erythrocytes based on current knowledge, while making explicit comparisons to their mammalian counterparts. Finally, we proposed by taking an integrative and comparative approach, using tools from molecular biology to evolutionary biology, would allow us to better understand the fundamental physiological functions of various components of avian and mammalian erythrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Nian Yap
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Yufeng Zhang
- School of Health Studies, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, United States
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25
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Hawkes LA, Fahlman A, Sato K. Introduction to the theme issue: Measuring physiology in free-living animals. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200210. [PMID: 34121463 PMCID: PMC8200652 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
By describing where animals go, biologging technologies (i.e. animal attached logging of biological variables with small electronic devices) have been used to document the remarkable athletic feats of wild animals since the 1940s. The rapid development and miniaturization of physiologging (i.e. logging of physiological variables such as heart rate, blood oxygen content, lactate, breathing frequency and tidal volume on devices attached to animals) technologies in recent times (e.g. devices that weigh less than 2 g mass that can measure electrical biopotentials for days to weeks) has provided astonishing insights into the physiology of free-living animals to document how and why wild animals undertake these extreme feats. Now, physiologging, which was traditionally hindered by technological limitations, device size, ethics and logistics, is poised to benefit enormously from the on-going developments in biomedical and sports wearables technologies. Such technologies are already improving animal welfare and yield in agriculture and aquaculture, but may also reveal future pathways for therapeutic interventions in human health by shedding light on the physiological mechanisms with which free-living animals undertake some of the most extreme and impressive performances on earth. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part I)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. A. Hawkes
- Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Prince of Wales Road Exeter EX4 4PS, UK
| | - A. Fahlman
- Global Diving Research Inc, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valencia, Valencia, 46005 Spain
| | - K. Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture 277-8564, Japan
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26
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Williams CL, Hindle AG. Field Physiology: Studying Organismal Function in the Natural Environment. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1979-2015. [PMID: 34190338 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Continuous physiological measurements collected in field settings are essential to understand baseline, free-ranging physiology, physiological range and variability, and the physiological responses of organisms to disturbances. This article presents a current summary of the available technologies to continuously measure the direct physiological parameters in the field at high-resolution/instantaneous timescales from freely behaving animals. There is a particular focus on advantages versus disadvantages of available methods as well as emerging technologies "on the horizon" that may have been validated in captive or laboratory-based scenarios but have yet to be applied in the wild. Systems to record physiological variables from free-ranging animals are reviewed, including radio (VHF/UFH) telemetry, acoustic telemetry, and dataloggers. Physiological parameters that have been continuously measured in the field are addressed in seven sections including heart rate and electrocardiography (ECG); electromyography (EMG); electroencephalography (EEG); body temperature; respiratory, blood, and muscle oxygen; gastric pH and motility; and blood pressure and flow. The primary focal sections are heart rate and temperature as these can be, and have been, extensively studied in free-ranging organisms. Predicted aspects of future innovation in physiological monitoring are also discussed. The article concludes with an overview of best practices and points to consider regarding experimental designs, cautions, and effects on animals. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1979-2015, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassondra L Williams
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, USA.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Science, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Allyson G Hindle
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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27
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Lindström Å, Alerstam T, Andersson A, Bäckman J, Bahlenberg P, Bom R, Ekblom R, Klaassen RHG, Korniluk M, Sjöberg S, Weber JKM. Extreme altitude changes between night and day during marathon flights of great snipes. Curr Biol 2021; 31:3433-3439.e3. [PMID: 34197730 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.05.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Several factors affect the flight altitude of migratory birds, such as topography, ambient temperature, wind conditions, air humidity, predation avoidance, landmark orientation, and avoiding over-heating from direct sunlight.1-6 Recent tracking of migratory birds over long distances has shown that migrants change flight altitude more commonly and dramatically than previously thought.4-8 The reasons behind these altitude changes are not well understood. In their seasonal migrations between Sweden and sub-Saharan Africa, great snipes Gallinago media make non-stop flights of 4,000-7,000 km, lasting 60-90 h.9,10 Activity and air pressure data from multisensor dataloggers showed that great snipes repeatedly changed altitudes around dawn and dusk, between average cruising heights about 2,000 m (above sea level) at night and around 4,000 m during daytime. Frequency and autocorrelation analyses corroborated a conspicuous diel cycle in flight altitude. Most birds regularly flew at 6,000 m and one bird reached 8,700 m, possibly the highest altitude ever recorded for an identified migrating bird. The diel altitude changes took place independently of climate zone, topography, and habitat overflown. Ambient temperature, wind condition, and humidity have no important diel variation at the high altitudes chosen by great snipes. Instead, improved view for orientation by landmarks, predator avoidance, and not least, seeking cold altitudes at day to counteract heating from direct sunlight are the most plausible explanations for the diel altitude cycle. Together with similar recent findings for a small songbird,6 the great snipes' altitudinal performance sheds new light on the complexity and challenges of migratory flights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Åke Lindström
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Thomas Alerstam
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Arne Andersson
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Bäckman
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter Bahlenberg
- Lake Ånnsjön Bird Observatory, Handöl 563, SE-83015 Duved, Sweden
| | - Roeland Bom
- Department of Coastal Systems, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, PO Box 59, 1790 AB, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands
| | - Robert Ekblom
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, SE-75236 Uppsala, Sweden; Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, SE-106 48 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Raymond H G Klaassen
- Conservation Ecology Group, GELIFES, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Michał Korniluk
- Museum & Institute of Zoology PAS, Warsaw, Poland; Natura International Polska, Białystok, Poland
| | - Sissel Sjöberg
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Julia K M Weber
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
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Garde B, Wilson RP, Lempidakis E, Börger L, Portugal SJ, Hedenström A, Dell'Omo G, Quetting M, Wikelski M, Shepard ELC. Fine-scale changes in speed and altitude suggest protean movements in homing pigeon flights. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:210130. [PMID: 34017602 PMCID: PMC8131938 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.210130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The power curve provides a basis for predicting adjustments that animals make in flight speed, for example in relation to wind, distance, habitat foraging quality and objective. However, relatively few studies have examined how animals respond to the landscape below them, which could affect speed and power allocation through modifications in climb rate and perceived predation risk. We equipped homing pigeons (Columba livia) with high-frequency loggers to examine how flight speed, and hence effort, varies in relation to topography and land cover. Pigeons showed mixed evidence for an energy-saving strategy, as they minimized climb rates by starting their ascent ahead of hills, but selected rapid speeds in their ascents. Birds did not modify their speed substantially in relation to land cover, but used higher speeds during descending flight, highlighting the importance of considering the rate of change in altitude before estimating power use from speed. Finally, we document an unexpected variability in speed and altitude over fine scales; a source of substantial energetic inefficiency. We suggest this may be a form of protean behaviour adopted to reduce predation risk when flocking is not an option, and that such a strategy could be widespread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Garde
- Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
| | - Rory P. Wilson
- Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
| | - Emmanouil Lempidakis
- Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
| | - Luca Börger
- Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
| | - Steven J. Portugal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
| | - Anders Hedenström
- Department of Biology, Centre for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Michael Quetting
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Martin Wikelski
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Migration and Immuno-Ecology, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
| | - Emily L. C. Shepard
- Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
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Yin S, Xu Y, Batbayar N, Takekawa JY, Si Y, Prosser DJ, Newman SH, Prins HHT, De Boer WF. Do contrasting patterns of migration movements and disease outbreaks between congeneric waterfowl species reflect differing immunity? GEOSPATIAL HEALTH 2021; 16. [PMID: 34000793 DOI: 10.4081/gh.2021.909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Long-distance migrations influence the dynamics of hostpathogen interactions and understanding the role of migratory waterfowl in the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIV) is important. While wild geese have been associated with outbreak events, disease ecology of closely related species has not been studied to the same extent. The swan goose (Anser cygnoides) and the bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) are congeneric species with distinctly different HPAIV infection records; the former with few and the latter with numerous records. We compared movements of these species, as well as the more distantly related whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) through their annual migratory cycle to better understand exposure to HPAIV events and how this compares within and between congeneric and noncongeneric species. In spite of their record of fewer infections, swan geese were more likely to come in contact with disease outbreaks than bar-headed geese. We propose two possible explanations: i) frequent prolonged contact with domestic ducks increases innate immunity in swan geese, and/or ii) the stress of high-elevation migration reduces immunity of bar-headed geese. Continued efforts to improve our understanding of species-level pathogen response is critical to assessing disease transmission risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglai Yin
- College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China; Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen.
| | - Yanjie Xu
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands; The Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki, Helsinki.
| | | | | | - Yali Si
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Earth System Modelling and Department of Earth System Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden.
| | - Diann J Prosser
- U.S. Geological Survey, Patuxent Wildlife Research Centre, Laurel, MD.
| | - Scott H Newman
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Regional Office for Africa, Accra.
| | - Herbert H T Prins
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands; Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen.
| | - Willem F De Boer
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen.
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30
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Flight muscle and heart phenotypes in the high-flying ruddy shelduck. J Comp Physiol B 2021; 191:563-573. [PMID: 33591404 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-020-01326-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Ruddy shelduck migrate from wintering grounds in lowland India and Myanmar to breeding grounds in central China and Mongolia, sustaining flight over the Himalayas, where oxygen availability is greatly reduced. We compared phenotypes of the pectoralis muscle and the ventricle of the heart from ruddy shelduck and common shelduck (a closely related low-altitude congener) that were raised in common conditions at sea level, predicting that oxidative capacity would be greater in ruddy shelduck to support high-altitude migration. Fibre-type composition of the pectoralis and the maximal activity of eight enzymes involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism in the pectoralis and heart, were compared between species. Few differences distinguished ruddy shelduck from common shelduck in the flight muscle, with the exception that ruddy shelduck had higher activities of complex II and higher ratios of complex IV (cytochrome c oxidase) and complex II when expressed relative to citrate synthase activity. There were no species differences in fibre-type composition, so these changes in enzyme activity may reflect an evolved modification in the functional properties of muscle mitochondria, potentially influencing mitochondrial respiratory capacity and/or oxygen affinity. Ruddy shelduck also had higher lactate dehydrogenase activity concurrent with lower pyruvate kinase and hexokinase activity in the left ventricle, which likely reflects an increased capacity for lactate oxidation by the heart. We conclude that changes in pathways of mitochondrial energy metabolism in the muscle and heart may contribute to the ability of ruddy shelduck to fly at high altitude.
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Abstract
Population genomic studies of humans and other animals at high altitude have generated many hypotheses about the genes and pathways that may have contributed to hypoxia adaptation. Future advances require experimental tests of such hypotheses to identify causal mechanisms. Studies to date illustrate the challenge of moving from lists of candidate genes to the identification of phenotypic targets of selection, as it can be difficult to determine whether observed genotype-phenotype associations reflect causal effects or secondary consequences of changes in other traits that are linked via homeostatic regulation. Recent work on high-altitude models such as deer mice has revealed both plastic and evolved changes in respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic traits that contribute to aerobic performance capacity in hypoxia, and analyses of tissue-specific transcriptomes have identified changes in regulatory networks that mediate adaptive changes in physiological phenotype. Here we synthesize recent results and discuss lessons learned from studies of high-altitude adaptation that lie at the intersection of genomics and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay F Storz
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588, USA;
| | - Zachary A Cheviron
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana 59812, USA;
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López-López P, Perona AM, Egea-Casas O, Morant J, Urios V. Tri-axial accelerometry shows differences in energy expenditure and parental effort throughout the breeding season in long-lived raptors. Curr Zool 2021; 68:57-67. [PMID: 35169629 PMCID: PMC8836325 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutting-edge technologies are extremely useful to develop new workflows in studying ecological data, particularly to understand animal behavior and movement trajectories at the individual level. Although parental care is a well-studied phenomenon, most studies have been focused on direct observational or video recording data, as well as experimental manipulation. Therefore, what happens out of our sight still remains unknown. Using high-frequency GPS/GSM dataloggers and tri-axial accelerometers we monitored 25 Bonelli’s eagles Aquila fasciata during the breeding season to understand parental activities from a broader perspective. We used recursive data, measured as number of visits and residence time, to reveal nest attendance patterns of biparental care with role specialization between sexes. Accelerometry data interpreted as the overall dynamic body acceleration, a proxy of energy expenditure, showed strong differences in parental effort throughout the breeding season and between sexes. Thereby, males increased substantially their energetic requirements, due to the increased workload, while females spent most of the time on the nest. Furthermore, during critical phases of the breeding season, a low percentage of suitable hunting spots in eagles’ territories led them to increase their ranging behavior in order to find food, with important consequences in energy consumption and mortality risk. Our results highlight the crucial role of males in raptor species exhibiting biparental care. Finally, we exemplify how biologging technologies are an adequate and objective method to study parental care in raptors as well as to get deeper insight into breeding ecology of birds in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascual López-López
- Movement Ecology Laboratory, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia. C/Catedrático José, Beltrán 2, E-46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Arturo M Perona
- Movement Ecology Laboratory, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia. C/Catedrático José, Beltrán 2, E-46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Olga Egea-Casas
- Movement Ecology Laboratory, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia. C/Catedrático José, Beltrán 2, E-46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jon Morant
- Department of Ornithology, Aranzadi Sciences Society, Donostia-S. Sebastián, Guipúzcoa 03690, Spain
| | - Vicente Urios
- Vertebrates Zoology Research Group, University of Alicante, Apdo. 99, Alicante E-03080, Spain
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Hicks O, Kato A, Angelier F, Wisniewska DM, Hambly C, Speakman JR, Marciau C, Ropert-Coudert Y. Acceleration predicts energy expenditure in a fat, flightless, diving bird. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21493. [PMID: 33299039 PMCID: PMC7726140 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78025-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Energy drives behaviour and life history decisions, yet it can be hard to measure at fine scales in free-moving animals. Accelerometry has proven a powerful tool to estimate energy expenditure, but requires calibration in the wild. This can be difficult in some environments, or for particular behaviours, and validations have produced equivocal results in some species, particularly air-breathing divers. It is, therefore, important to calibrate accelerometry across different behaviours to understand the most parsimonious way to estimate energy expenditure in free-living conditions. Here, we combine data from miniaturised acceleration loggers on 58 free-living Adélie penguins with doubly labelled water (DLW) measurements of their energy expenditure over several days. Across different behaviours, both in water and on land, dynamic body acceleration was a good predictor of independently measured DLW-derived energy expenditure (R2 = 0.72). The most parsimonious model suggested different calibration coefficients are required to predict behaviours on land versus foraging behaviour in water (R2 = 0.75). Our results show that accelerometry can be used to reliably estimate energy expenditure in penguins, and we provide calibration equations for estimating metabolic rate across several behaviours in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Hicks
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS, La Rochelle Université, UMR 7372, Villiers-en-Bois, France.
| | - Akiko Kato
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS, La Rochelle Université, UMR 7372, Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Frederic Angelier
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS, La Rochelle Université, UMR 7372, Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Danuta M Wisniewska
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS, La Rochelle Université, UMR 7372, Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Catherine Hambly
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - John R Speakman
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Coline Marciau
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS, La Rochelle Université, UMR 7372, Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Yan Ropert-Coudert
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS, La Rochelle Université, UMR 7372, Villiers-en-Bois, France
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34
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Nuijten RJM, Gerrits T, Shamoun-Baranes J, Nolet BA. Less is more: On-board lossy compression of accelerometer data increases biologging capacity. J Anim Ecol 2020; 89:237-247. [PMID: 31828775 PMCID: PMC7004173 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
GPS‐tracking devices have been used in combination with a wide range of additional sensors to study animal behaviour, physiology and interaction with their environment. Tri‐axial accelerometers allow researchers to remotely infer the behaviour of individuals, at all places and times. Collection of accelerometer data is relatively cheap in terms of energy usage, but the amount of raw data collected generally requires much storage space and is particularly demanding in terms of energy needed for data transmission. Here, we propose compressing the raw accelerometer (ACC) data into summary statistics within the tracking device (before transmission) to reduce data size, as a means to overcome limitations in storage and energy capacity. We explored this type of lossy data compression in the accelerometer data of tagged Bewick's swans Cygnus columbianus bewickii collected in spring 2017. Using software settings in which bouts of 2 s of both raw ACC data and summary statistics were collected in parallel but with different bout intervals to keep total data size comparable, we created the opportunity for a direct comparison of time budgets derived by the two data collection methods. We found that the data compression in our case yielded a six times reduction in data size per bout, and concurrent, similar decreases in storage and energy use of the device. We show that with the same accuracy of the behavioural classification, the freed memory and energy of the device can be used to increase the monitoring effort, resulting in a more detailed representation of the individuals’ time budget. Rare and/or short behaviours, such as daily roost flights, were picked up significantly more when collecting summary statistics instead of raw ACC data (but note differences in sampling rate). Such level of detail can be of essential importance, for instance to make a reliable estimate of the energy budgets of individuals. In conclusion, we argue that this type of lossy data compression can be a well‐considered choice in study situations where limitations in energy and storage space of the device pose a problem. Ultimately, these developments can allow for long‐term and nearly continuous remote monitoring of the behaviour of free‐ranging animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rascha J M Nuijten
- Department of Animal Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Judy Shamoun-Baranes
- Department of Theoretical and Computational Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bart A Nolet
- Department of Animal Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Theoretical and Computational Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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35
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Dawson NJ, Alza L, Nandal G, Scott GR, McCracken KG. Convergent changes in muscle metabolism depend on duration of high-altitude ancestry across Andean waterfowl. eLife 2020; 9:e56259. [PMID: 32729830 PMCID: PMC7494360 DOI: 10.7554/elife.56259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High-altitude environments require that animals meet the metabolic O2 demands for locomotion and thermogenesis in O2-thin air, but the degree to which convergent metabolic changes have arisen across independent high-altitude lineages or the speed at which such changes arise is unclear. We examined seven high-altitude waterfowl that have inhabited the Andes (3812-4806 m elevation) over varying evolutionary time scales, to elucidate changes in biochemical pathways of energy metabolism in flight muscle relative to low-altitude sister taxa. Convergent changes across high-altitude taxa included increased hydroxyacyl-coA dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities, decreased lactate dehydrogenase, pyruvate kinase, creatine kinase, and cytochrome c oxidase activities, and increased myoglobin content. ATP synthase activity increased in only the longest established high-altitude taxa, whereas hexokinase activity increased in only newly established taxa. Therefore, changes in pathways of lipid oxidation, glycolysis, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation are common strategies to cope with high-altitude hypoxia, but some changes require longer evolutionary time to arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal J Dawson
- Department of Biology, McMaster UniversityHamiltonCanada
- Department of Biology University of MiamiCoral GablesUnited States
| | - Luis Alza
- Department of Biology University of MiamiCoral GablesUnited States
- University of Alaska Museum and Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska FairbanksFairbanksUnited States
- Centro de Ornitología y Biodiversidad - CORBIDILimaPeru
| | | | - Graham R Scott
- Department of Biology, McMaster UniversityHamiltonCanada
| | - Kevin G McCracken
- Department of Biology University of MiamiCoral GablesUnited States
- University of Alaska Museum and Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska FairbanksFairbanksUnited States
- Centro de Ornitología y Biodiversidad - CORBIDILimaPeru
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, University of MiamiMiamiUnited States
- Human Genetics and Genomics, Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of MedicineMiamiUnited States
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Erséus C, Williams BW, Horn KM, Halanych KM, Santos SR, James SW, Creuzé des Châtelliers M, Anderson FE. Phylogenomic analyses reveal a Palaeozoic radiation and support a freshwater origin for clitellate annelids. ZOOL SCR 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/zsc.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christer Erséus
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Gothenburg Göteborg Sweden
| | - Bronwyn W. Williams
- School of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Carbondale IL USA
- Research Laboratory North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Raleigh NC USA
| | - Kevin M. Horn
- School of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Carbondale IL USA
- Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Kentucky Wesleyan College Owensboro Kentucky USA
| | - Kenneth M. Halanych
- Molette Biology Laboratory for Environmental and Climate Change Studies Department of Biological Sciences Auburn University Auburn AL USA
| | - Scott R. Santos
- Molette Biology Laboratory for Environmental and Climate Change Studies Department of Biological Sciences Auburn University Auburn AL USA
| | - Samuel W. James
- Sustainable Living Department Maharishi University of Management Fairfield IA USA
| | | | - Frank E. Anderson
- School of Biological Sciences Southern Illinois University Carbondale IL USA
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Pamenter ME, Hall JE, Tanabe Y, Simonson TS. Cross-Species Insights Into Genomic Adaptations to Hypoxia. Front Genet 2020; 11:743. [PMID: 32849780 PMCID: PMC7387696 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over millions of years, vertebrate species populated vast environments spanning the globe. Among the most challenging habitats encountered were those with limited availability of oxygen, yet many animal and human populations inhabit and perform life cycle functions and/or daily activities in varying degrees of hypoxia today. Of particular interest are species that inhabit high-altitude niches, which experience chronic hypobaric hypoxia throughout their lives. Physiological and molecular aspects of adaptation to hypoxia have long been the focus of high-altitude populations and, within the past decade, genomic information has become increasingly accessible. These data provide an opportunity to search for common genetic signatures of selection across uniquely informative populations and thereby augment our understanding of the mechanisms underlying adaptations to hypoxia. In this review, we synthesize the available genomic findings across hypoxia-tolerant species to provide a comprehensive view of putatively hypoxia-adaptive genes and pathways. In many cases, adaptive signatures across species converge on the same genetic pathways or on genes themselves [i.e., the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathway). However, specific variants thought to underlie function are distinct between species and populations, and, in most cases, the precise functional role of these genomic differences remains unknown. Efforts to standardize these findings and explore relationships between genotype and phenotype will provide important clues into the evolutionary and mechanistic bases of physiological adaptations to environmental hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E. Pamenter
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - James E. Hall
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Yuuka Tanabe
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Tatum S. Simonson
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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Abstract
Flapping flight is extremely costly for large birds, yet little is known about the conditions that force them to flap. We attached custom-made “flight recorders” to Andean condors, the world’s heaviest soaring birds, documenting every single wingbeat and when and how individuals gained altitude. Remarkably, condors flapped for only 1% of their flight time, specifically during takeoff and when close to the ground. This is particularly striking as the birds were immature. Thus, our results demonstrate that even inexperienced birds can cover vast distances over land without flapping. Overall, this can help explain how extinct birds with twice the wingspan of condors could have flown. Flight costs are predicted to vary with environmental conditions, and this should ultimately determine the movement capacity and distributions of large soaring birds. Despite this, little is known about how flight effort varies with environmental parameters. We deployed bio-logging devices on the world’s heaviest soaring bird, the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), to assess the extent to which these birds can operate without resorting to powered flight. Our records of individual wingbeats in >216 h of flight show that condors can sustain soaring across a wide range of wind and thermal conditions, flapping for only 1% of their flight time. This is among the very lowest estimated movement costs in vertebrates. One bird even flew for >5 h without flapping, covering ∼172 km. Overall, > 75% of flapping flight was associated with takeoffs. Movement between weak thermal updrafts at the start of the day also imposed a metabolic cost, with birds flapping toward the end of glides to reach ephemeral thermal updrafts. Nonetheless, the investment required was still remarkably low, and even in winter conditions with weak thermals, condors are only predicted to flap for ∼2 s per kilometer. Therefore, the overall flight effort in the largest soaring birds appears to be constrained by the requirements for takeoff.
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Wang W, Wang F, Hao R, Wang A, Sharshov K, Druzyaka A, Lancuo Z, Shi Y, Feng S. First de novo whole genome sequencing and assembly of the bar-headed goose. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8914. [PMID: 32292659 PMCID: PMC7144584 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) mainly inhabits the plateau wetlands of Asia. As a specialized high-altitude species, bar-headed geese can migrate between South and Central Asia and annually fly twice over the Himalayan mountains along the central Asian flyway. The physiological, biochemical and behavioral adaptations of bar-headed geese to high-altitude living and flying have raised much interest. However, to date, there is still no genome assembly information publicly available for bar-headed geese. Methods In this study, we present the first de novo whole genome sequencing and assembly of the bar-headed goose, along with gene prediction and annotation. Results 10X Genomics sequencing produced a total of 124 Gb sequencing data, which can cover the estimated genome size of bar-headed goose for 103 times (average coverage). The genome assembly comprised 10,528 scaffolds, with a total length of 1.143 Gb and a scaffold N50 of 10.09 Mb. Annotation of the bar-headed goose genome assembly identified a total of 102 Mb (8.9%) of repetitive sequences, 16,428 protein-coding genes, and 282 tRNAs. In total, we determined that there were 63 expanded and 20 contracted gene families in the bar-headed goose compared with the other 15 vertebrates. We also performed a positive selection analysis between the bar-headed goose and the closely related low-altitude goose, swan goose (Anser cygnoides), to uncover its genetic adaptations to the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Conclusion We reported the currently most complete genome sequence of the bar-headed goose. Our assembly will provide a valuable resource to enhance further studies of the gene functions of bar-headed goose. The data will also be valuable for facilitating studies of the evolution, population genetics and high-altitude adaptations of the bar-headed geese at the genomic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xi'ning, Qinghai, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'ning, Qinghai, China
| | - Rongkai Hao
- Novogene Bioinformatics Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Aizhen Wang
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, Xi'ning, Qinghai, China
| | - Kirill Sharshov
- Research Institute of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexey Druzyaka
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Zhuoma Lancuo
- School of Finance and Economics, Qinghai University, Xi'ning, Qinghai, China
| | - Yuetong Shi
- KunLun College of Qinghai University, Xi'ning, Qinghai, China
| | - Shuo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xi'ning, Qinghai, China
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Maina JN, Igbokwe CO. Comparative morphometric analysis of lungs of the semifossorial giant pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus) and the subterranean Nigerian mole rat (Cryptomys foxi). Sci Rep 2020; 10:5244. [PMID: 32251351 PMCID: PMC7090082 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61873-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lungs of the rodent species, the African giant pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus) and the Nigerian mole rat (Cryptomys foxi) were investigated. Significant morphometric differences exist between the two species. The volume of the lung per unit body mass was 2.7 times larger; the respiratory surface area 3.4 times greater; the volume of the pulmonary capillary blood 2 times more; the harmonic mean thickness of the blood-gas (tissue) barrier (τht) ~29% thinner and; the total pulmonary morphometric diffusing capacity (DLo2) for O2 2.3 times more in C. foxi. C. gambianus occupies open burrows that are ventilated with air while C. foxi lives in closed burrows. The less morphometrically specialized lungs of C. gambianus may be attributed to its much larger body mass (~6 times more) and possibly lower metabolic rate and its semifossorial life whereas the 'superior' lungs of C. foxi may largely be ascribed to the subterranean hypoxic and hypercapnic environment it occupies. Compared to other rodents species that have been investigated hitherto, the τht was mostly smaller in the lungs of the subterranean species and C. foxi has the highest mass-specific DLo2. The fossorial- and the subterranean rodents have acquired various pulmonary structural specializations that relate to habitats occupied.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Maina
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus, Kingsway, Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa.
| | - Casmir O Igbokwe
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus, Kingsway, Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa
- Visiting Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
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41
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Estimates of marine turtle nesting populations in the south-west Indian Ocean indicate the importance of the Chagos Archipelago. ORYX 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605319001108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractGlobal marine turtle population assessments highlight the importance of the south-west Indian Ocean region, despite data gaps for the Chagos Archipelago. The archipelago hosts nesting hawksbill Eretmochelys imbricata and green turtles Chelonia mydas, both heavily exploited for 2 centuries until protection in 1968–1970. We assessed available nesting habitat and spatial distribution of nesting activity during rapid surveys of 90% of the archipelago's coastline in 1996, 1999, 2006 and 2016. We quantified seasonality and mean annual egg clutch production from monthly track counts during 2006–2018 along a 2.8 km index beach on Diego Garcia island. An estimated 56% (132 km) of coastline provided suitable nesting habitat. Diego Garcia and Peros Banhos atolls accounted for 90.4% of hawksbill and 70.4% of green turtle nesting. Hawksbill turtles showed distinct nesting peaks during October–February, and green turtles nested year-round with elevated activity during June–October. Estimates of 6,300 hawksbill and 20,500 green turtle clutches laid annually during 2011–2018 indicate that nesting on the Chagos Archipelago has increased 2–5 times for hawksbill turtles and 4–9 times for green turtles since 1996. Regional estimates indicate green turtles produce 10 times more egg clutches than hawksbill turtles, and the Chagos Archipelago accounts for 39–51% of an estimated 12,500–16,000 hawksbill and 14–20% of an estimated 104,000–143,500 green turtle clutches laid in the south-west Indian Ocean. The improved status may reflect > 40 years without significant exploitation. Long-term monitoring is needed to captureinterannual variation in nesting numbers and minimize uncertainty in population estimates.
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42
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Katzner TE, Arlettaz R. Evaluating Contributions of Recent Tracking-Based Animal Movement Ecology to Conservation Management. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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43
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Parr N, Wilkes M, Hawkes LA. Natural Climbers: Insights from Avian Physiology at High Altitude. High Alt Med Biol 2019; 20:427-437. [DOI: 10.1089/ham.2019.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Parr
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - Matt Wilkes
- Centre for Altitude Space and Extreme Environment Medicine, Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Alice Hawkes
- Hatherly Laboratories, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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44
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Parr N, Bishop CM, Batbayar N, Butler PJ, Chua B, Milsom WK, Scott GR, Hawkes LA. Tackling the Tibetan Plateau in a down suit: insights into thermoregulation by bar-headed geese during migration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 222:222/19/jeb203695. [PMID: 31601684 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.203695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Birds migrating through extreme environments can experience a range of challenges while meeting the demands of flight, including highly variable ambient temperatures, humidity and oxygen levels. However, there has been limited research into avian thermoregulation during migration in extreme environments. This study aimed to investigate the effect of flight performance and high altitude on body temperature (T b) of free-flying bar-headed geese (Anser indicus), a species that completes a high-altitude trans-Himalayan migration through very cold, hypoxic environments. We measured abdominal T b, along with altitude (via changes in barometric pressure), heart rate and body acceleration of bar-headed geese during their migration across the Tibetan Plateau. Bar-headed geese vary the circadian rhythm of T b in response to migration, with peak daily T b during daytime hours outside of migration but early in the morning or overnight during migration, reflecting changes in body acceleration. However, during flight, changes in T b were not consistent with changes in flight performance (as measured by heart rate or rate of ascent) or altitude. Overall, our results suggest that bar-headed geese are able to thermoregulate during high-altitude migration, maintaining T b within a relatively narrow range despite appreciable variation in flight intensity and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Parr
- University of Exeter, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Charles M Bishop
- Bangor University, School of Biological Sciences, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Nyambayar Batbayar
- Wildlife Science & Conservation Centre of Mongolia, Bayanzurkh District, Ulaanbaatar, 210351, Mongolia
| | - Patrick J Butler
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Beverly Chua
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - William K Milsom
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - Graham R Scott
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada, L8S 4K1
| | - Lucy A Hawkes
- University of Exeter, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hatherly Laboratories, Exeter EX4 4PS, UK
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45
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Williams HJ, Taylor LA, Benhamou S, Bijleveld AI, Clay TA, de Grissac S, Demšar U, English HM, Franconi N, Gómez-Laich A, Griffiths RC, Kay WP, Morales JM, Potts JR, Rogerson KF, Rutz C, Spelt A, Trevail AM, Wilson RP, Börger L. Optimizing the use of biologgers for movement ecology research. J Anim Ecol 2019; 89:186-206. [PMID: 31424571 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The paradigm-changing opportunities of biologging sensors for ecological research, especially movement ecology, are vast, but the crucial questions of how best to match the most appropriate sensors and sensor combinations to specific biological questions and how to analyse complex biologging data, are mostly ignored. Here, we fill this gap by reviewing how to optimize the use of biologging techniques to answer questions in movement ecology and synthesize this into an Integrated Biologging Framework (IBF). We highlight that multisensor approaches are a new frontier in biologging, while identifying current limitations and avenues for future development in sensor technology. We focus on the importance of efficient data exploration, and more advanced multidimensional visualization methods, combined with appropriate archiving and sharing approaches, to tackle the big data issues presented by biologging. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities in matching the peculiarities of specific sensor data to the statistical models used, highlighting at the same time the large advances which will be required in the latter to properly analyse biologging data. Taking advantage of the biologging revolution will require a large improvement in the theoretical and mathematical foundations of movement ecology, to include the rich set of high-frequency multivariate data, which greatly expand the fundamentally limited and coarse data that could be collected using location-only technology such as GPS. Equally important will be the establishment of multidisciplinary collaborations to catalyse the opportunities offered by current and future biologging technology. If this is achieved, clear potential exists for developing a vastly improved mechanistic understanding of animal movements and their roles in ecological processes and for building realistic predictive models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah J Williams
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Lucy A Taylor
- Save the Elephants, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Simon Benhamou
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CNRS Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Allert I Bijleveld
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems, Utrecht University, Den Burg, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas A Clay
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sophie de Grissac
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Urška Demšar
- School of Geography & Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Holly M English
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Novella Franconi
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Agustina Gómez-Laich
- Instituto de Biología de Organismos Marinos (IBIOMAR), CONICET, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Rachael C Griffiths
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - William P Kay
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Juan Manuel Morales
- Grupo de Ecología Cuantitativa, INIBIOMA-Universidad Nacional del Comahue, CONICET, Bariloche, Argentina
| | - Jonathan R Potts
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Christian Rutz
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Anouk Spelt
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, University of Bristol, University Walk, UK
| | - Alice M Trevail
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rory P Wilson
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Luca Börger
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
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46
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Abstract
Bar-headed geese lower their flight metabolic rates to fly in low-oxygen conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Harrison
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, United States
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47
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Meir JU, York JM, Chua BA, Jardine W, Hawkes LA, Milsom WK. Reduced metabolism supports hypoxic flight in the high-flying bar-headed goose ( Anser indicus). eLife 2019; 8:e44986. [PMID: 31478481 PMCID: PMC6721836 DOI: 10.7554/elife.44986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The bar-headed goose is famed for migratory flight at extreme altitude. To better understand the physiology underlying this remarkable behavior, we imprinted and trained geese, collecting the first cardiorespiratory measurements of bar-headed geese flying at simulated altitude in a wind tunnel. Metabolic rate during flight increased 16-fold from rest, supported by an increase in the estimated amount of O2 transported per heartbeat and a modest increase in heart rate. The geese appear to have ample cardiac reserves, as heart rate during hypoxic flights was not higher than in normoxic flights. We conclude that flight in hypoxia is largely achieved via the reduction in metabolic rate compared to normoxia. Arterial [Formula: see text] was maintained throughout flights. Mixed venous PO2 decreased during the initial portion of flights in hypoxia, indicative of increased tissue O2 extraction. We also discovered that mixed venous temperature decreased during flight, which may significantly increase oxygen loading to hemoglobin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica U Meir
- NASA Johnson Space CenterHoustonUnited States
- University of British ColumbiaVancouverCanada
| | - Julia M York
- University of British ColumbiaVancouverCanada
- University of Texas at AustinAustinUnited States
| | - Bev A Chua
- University of British ColumbiaVancouverCanada
| | | | - Lucy A Hawkes
- Hatherly Laboratories, College of Life and Environmental SciencesUniversity of ExeterExeterUnited Kingdom
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48
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Guigueno MF, Shoji A, Elliott KH, Aris-Brosou S. Flight costs in volant vertebrates: A phylogenetically-controlled meta-analysis of birds and bats. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2019; 235:193-201. [PMID: 31195122 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Flight costs play an important role in determining the behavior, ecology, and physiology of birds and bats. Mechanical flight costs can be estimated from aerodynamics. However, measured metabolic flight costs (oxygen consumption rate) are less accurately predicted by flight theory, either because of (1) variation in flight efficiency across species, (2) variation in how basal costs interact with flight costs or (3) methodological biases. To tease apart these three hypotheses, we conducted a phylogenetically-controlled meta-analysis based on data from birds and bats. Birds doing short flights in a lab had higher metabolic rates than those with sustained flapping flight. In turn, species that used sustained flapping flight had a higher metabolic rate than those that flew primarily via gliding. Models accounting for relatedness (phylogeny) explained the data better than those that did not, which is congruent with the idea that several different flight Bauplans have evolved within birds and bats. Focusing on species with sustained flapping flight, for which more data are currently available, we found that flight cost estimates were not affected by measurement methods in both birds and bats. However, efficiency increased with body mass and decreased with flight speed in both birds and bats. Basal metabolic rate was additive to flight metabolic rate in bats but not birds. We use these results to derive an equation for estimating metabolic flight costs of birds and bats that includes variation in whole animal efficiency with flight speed and body mass.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akiko Shoji
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec, Canada
| | - Stéphane Aris-Brosou
- Departments of Biology and of Mathematics & Statistics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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49
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O'Mara MT, Scharf AK, Fahr J, Abedi-Lartey M, Wikelski M, Dechmann DKN, Safi K. Overall Dynamic Body Acceleration in Straw-Colored Fruit Bats Increases in Headwinds but Not With Airspeed. Front Ecol Evol 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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50
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Teague O'Mara M, Wikelski M, Kranstauber B, Dechmann DKN. First three-dimensional tracks of bat migration reveal large amounts of individual behavioral flexibility. Ecology 2019; 100:e02762. [PMID: 31127630 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.2762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Teague O'Mara
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Am Obstberg 1, Radolfzell, 78315, Germany.,Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätstr. 10, Konstanz, 78457, Germany.,Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Universitätstr. 10, Konstanz, 78457, Germany
| | - Martin Wikelski
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Am Obstberg 1, Radolfzell, 78315, Germany.,Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätstr. 10, Konstanz, 78457, Germany
| | - Bart Kranstauber
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Am Obstberg 1, Radolfzell, 78315, Germany.,Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurstr. 190, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Dina K N Dechmann
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Am Obstberg 1, Radolfzell, 78315, Germany.,Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätstr. 10, Konstanz, 78457, Germany
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