Table 1 List of definitions created for this study, to outline different terrestrial strategies: fossorial, semi-fossorial, terrestrial, flying and aquatic.
From: No evidence for a signal in mammalian basal metabolic rate associated with a fossorial lifestyle
Terrestrial category | Definition |
|---|---|
Fossorial—below ground only | Spends approx. whole life underground. Primarily digs/creates own closed burrow systems, which creates a controlled microclimate. Will show evidence of morphological and physiological adaptations to subterranean life, such as regression of eyesight or developed forelimbs adapted for digging |
Semi-fossorial—below and on the ground | Spend significant time underground: using burrow at least once during a daily cycle (for sleeping, sheltering, eating, etc.). May create own burrow or may make use of existing burrows/crevices/cavities that are open or covered, but not completely closed. Some degree of a microclimate is created. May or may not hibernate |
Terrestrial—on the ground only | Spends whole life above ground. Does not dig/create/make use of burrows or underground systems. Does not live in a controlled microclimate |
Flying | Mammals capable of powered sustained flight. May or may not make use of cavities/crevices/caves but do not dig/create underground systems. Some degree of a microclimate may or may not be created |
Aquatic | Mammals that are found predominantly in freshwater or marine environments. May or may not leave water for brief periods of time within a daily cycle. May or may not make use of cavities/crevices/caves but do not dig/create underground systems. Some degree of a microclimate may or may not be created |
