Energy storage hibernation

Does hibernation save energy?

In hibernating mammals, the metabolic rate is suppressed during winter, along with a decrease in the core body temperature, which results in substantial energy saving (Hampton et al., 2013, Staples, 2016 ); however, periodic interbout arousals during hibernation still consume much energy ( Karpovich et al., 2009 ).

How does hibernation affect thermoregulation?

Hibernation is a unique evolutionary adaptation to conserve energy. During the pre-hibernation (i.e. fall) season, a progressive decline in core body temperature and further decrease in metabolism underlie a seasonal modulation in thermoregulation.

What happens during hibernation?

The hibernation season is not static but is comprised of extended periods of low metabolic rate and T b (torpor bouts) interrupted by regular IBA. Animals actively suppress metabolism, which results in a decrease in T b (and a further decrease in metabolism) during the cooling phase.

What adaptations allow for hibernation?

In mammals, adaptations that allow for hibernation can be classified as those involved in preparation for hibernation, metabolic reduction, continued cellular function and protection, and arousal.

How does hibernation affect a mammal's body temperature?

This contrasts with larger mammals, whose body temperature is much less reduced during hibernation and remains fairly consistent. Skeletal muscle, which comprises around half of a mammal's body mass, plays a key role in determining their heat production and energy use.

Why do mammals hibernate?

In mammals, the entering of hibernation is accompanied by a switch of fuel use from carbohydrates to lipids, which provide the most energy-dense metabolic substrate (Sheriff et al., 2013). Previous transcriptome studies in hibernating mammals have provided molecular evidences for this switch.