Interactions between body temperature regulation and blood acid-base status in anuran amphibians

In vertebrate evolution, the transition from aquatic to terrestrial mode of life was associated with considerable changes in the respiratory system and CO2/pH-sensitive receptors became fundamental. The present review focuses on the combined effects of hypercapnia and body temperature in anuran amphibians, that represent a key group for the transition. Recent studies have indicated that temperature affects the hypercapnic drive to breathe. Conversely, hypercapnia modulates the range of preferred body temperature of amphibians and central (CO2/pH) receptors are likely to be involved.