Insights into animal temperature adaptations revealed through thermal imaging

Abstract

Infrared thermal technology allows for the real-time visualisation of fixed or transient changes in the long-wave radiative energy emanating from an object, in essence, allowing for the estimation of surface temperature. Animal surface temperatures are, therefore, readily detected using this technology, allowing for the assessment of physiological responses associated with the regulation of body temperature. In this paper, we will introduce some recent advances made possible or enhanced through the use of thermal imaging. In particular, this imaging technology has shed light on the regulation of peripheral blood flow in endothermic animals, on the dynamics of animal heat transfer in complex thermal environments, on the production of heat associated with metabolism and on the importance of evaporative heat loss to respiratory function and its potential contribution to preventing overheating of the brain. More than a simple imager for temperature, this technology has the potential to contribute a greater understanding of animal thermal adaptations, not only since it provides live information on surface temperatures, but more importantly because its non-invasive nature which allows measurements to be obtained with minimal disturbance.

Keywords:

• THERMOREGULATION
• PERIPHERAL HEAT LOSS
• INFRARED THERMAL IMAGING
• MAMMAL
• BIRD
• REPTILE