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Science 11 February 1966:
Vol. 151. no. 3711, pp. 694 - 695
DOI: 10.1126/science.151.3711.694
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Articles

Thermoregulation in a Brooding Female Indian Python, Python molurus bivittatus

Victor H. Hutchison 1, Herndon G. Dowling 1, and Allen Vinegar 1

1 Department of Zoology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, and New York Zoological Park, Bronx

At varying environmental temperatures, measurements of body temperatures and gas exchange of a female Indian python (Python molurus bivittatus) show that during the brooding period this animal can regulate its body temperature by physiological means analogous to those in endotherms. Ambient temperatures below 33°C result in spasmodic contractions of the body musculature with a consequent increase in metabolism and body temperature.


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