ABSTRACT
The Andean tuco-tuco, Ctenomys fulvus (Rodentia: Ctenomyidae) inhabits one of the most arid regions of the world, the Salar de Atacama, Northeast of Antofagasta, Chile (23 degrees 17'06"S, 68 degrees 05'43"W; 2.240 m.a.s.l). We found that a stable microclimate in burrows, a low evaporative water loss (EWL), and a diet of roots (59% water content) are the main factors that permit the survival of this fossorial species in harsh desert conditions. Large circadian variation in T(a) was observed above ground. Daily DeltaT(a) (T(a) max - T(a) min) = 37.9+/-0.2 degrees C in summer and in winter. In contrast, circadian variation of T(a) inside the burrows was only 5.8+/-0.5 degrees C in the same seasons. Relative humidity (RH) was 1.9-3.1% during the day, increasing to maximum values of 27% at night and early morning. Inside the burrows RH was higher and quite stable, ranging between 53.1 and 65%, independent of the time of day and season. EWL, measured between 10 and 25 degrees C, was low (1.26 mg/g h), and a moderate increase of 13-20% was observed at higher temperatures. The low EWL may prevent dehydration. However, because of the low heat loss capability, animals became hyperthermic (0.8-1.6 degrees C) in dry air at T(a)=30-35 degrees C. As T(a) during afternoon normally exceeded 35 degrees C, the microclimate of burrows provided the only way to avoid the lethal effects of hyperthermia.
