Influence of temperature and body mass on standard metabolic rate of eastern red-backed salamanders (Plethodon cinereus)

(1) We estimated the standard metabolic rate (SMR) of wild-caught Plethodon cinereus across a range of body masses and ecologically relevant temperatures. (2) We collected 16 salamanders, ranging 0.06-1.11 g and quantified oxygen consumption at 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 degrees C with a computer-controlled, closed-circuit, indirect respirometer. The multiple regression model indicated that SMR increased with body mass and temperature (F(2.77)=815.59, P<0.001). (3) Our allometric relationship explained >95% of the variation in SMR. The regression equation can be used to investigate questions of applied or basic ecological interest, such as quantifying energetic costs of anthropogenic or natural disturbances on energy budgets. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.