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    Respiratory physiology of belugas (Delphinapterus leucas)

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    Epple, Alexandra thesis.pdf (949.1Kb)
    Date Issued
    2016-08
    Author
    Epple, Alexandra L.
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    URI
    http://hdl.handle.net/1969.6/1165
    Abstract
    Though cetaceans withstand long periods of apnea and exhibit short respiratory exchange periods, many of the fundamental physiological mechanisms underlying cetacean respiration are unknown. This study examined respiratory durations, volumes and flow rates in nine belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) housed in managed care facilities using custom designed pulmonary function equipment. Large differences were observed among the animals, including vastly different tidal volumes (7.5 20.7 L) and vital capacities (29.8 93.0 L). Measurements of vital capacity may have been affected by behavioral compliance with requested maximal effort cues, but may also have allowed for measurement of larger ranges past those obtainable without training. Animals exhibited high flow rates with a maximal recorded flow rate of 371 L∙sec–1; slower and less variable inspiratory flows indicate a potential physiological flow limitation not exhibited during expiration. Tidal volumes were much larger than those predicted based on respiratory scaling equations and were 43 % of the vital capacity. Though previous research suggests that cetaceans may be capable of exchanging 80-90 % of their total lung capacity, these animals were not regularly doing so. These findings expand upon data previously collected in other species by establishing novel data on respiratory variables in belugas. Development of a healthy baseline could allow for non-invasive investigation into beluga respiratory health.
    Description
    A thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of MASTER of SCIENCE in MARINE BIOLOGY from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in Corpus Christi, Texas.
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    This material is made available for use in research, teaching, and private study, pursuant to U.S. Copyright law. The user assumes full responsibility for any use of the materials, including but not limited to, infringement of copyright and publication rights of reproduced materials. Any materials used should be fully credited with its source. All rights are reserved and retained regardless of current or future development or laws that may apply to fair use standards. Permission for publication of this material, in part or in full, must be secured with the author and/or publisher.
    Epple, Alexandra L.
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