A model to estimate seabird field metabolic rates

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Zoology
• Physiology

Background:

• Field metabolic rate (FMR) quantifies energy expenditure in free-ranging animals.
• FMR is crucial for understanding ecological processes and animal behavior.
• Seabirds play significant roles in marine ecosystems, making their energy demands a key research area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify large-scale determinants of seabird FMR during the breeding season.
• To develop a predictive model for seabird FMR using a meta-analytical approach.
• To create a user-friendly application for estimating seabird FMR.

Main Methods:

• Phylogenetically informed meta-analysis of data from 64 studies covering 47 seabird species.
• Development of a statistical model to estimate FMR based on identified determinants.
• Creation of a mobile application for FMR estimation.

Main Results:

• Seabird FMR was positively correlated with body mass and colony latitude.
• FMR increased significantly from incubation through brood to crèche stages of the breeding season.
• Predation pressure and average brood size did not significantly impact FMR.

Conclusions:

• Body mass, colony latitude, and breeding stage are key predictors of seabird FMR.
• The developed model and app provide valuable tools for ecological research.
• Understanding seabird energetic demands enhances knowledge of their role in marine systems.