Comp. Biochem. Physiol. Vol. 82A, No. 3, pp. 687-691, 1985

N. S. LOUMBOURDIS and ADRIAN HAILEY

Biological Laboratory and Ecology Unit-S.C.E., Rutherford College, University of Kent,
Canterbury CT2 7NX UK

(Received 7 March 1985)

Abstract-1. Oxygen consumption and lactate production above resting levels, and selected body temperatures, were measured in the lizard Agama stellio.

2. Active and resting VO₂ have low Q₁₀ (1.7, 2.0) in the activity range 30-37^oC and higher Q₁₀ (3.8, 4.0) below this.

3. A correlation was found between published resting and active VO₂ of lizards, and between VO₂ and lifestyle. Four types were recognized, in order of increasing VO₂: (a) fossorial; (b) sit-and-wait (including A. stellio); (c) cruising, and (d) widely foraging.

4. A. stellio has a high capacity for lactate production, correlated with its short but rapid bursts of activity. This accounts for 80-90% of the energy used during 30 sec maximal activity.