Bergmann’s Rule
Bergmann’s Rule states that within a species, the average body mass of individuals is usually larger in colder environments than in warmer environments. The rule is named after the German biologist Carl Bergmann, who proposed it in 1847. Bergmann’s Rule is thought to be a result of the fact that animals have to expend more energy to keep their body temperature up in cold environments. The bigger an animal is, the more energy it can store, and the more easily it can keep its body temperature high.
Bergmann’s Rule – Ecology and Exceptions
Bergmann’s Rule is a principle in ecology that states that within a species, body size increases with latitude, as colder environments lead to a larger body size to conserve heat. This is thought to be because in colder climates, larger animals can better retain their body heat. This rule has been found to be generally true, with a few exceptions.
One exception to Bergmann’s Rule is the naked mole rat, which is found in Africa and has a smaller body size than other rodents of a similar latitude. This is thought to be because the naked mole rat lives in a very hot environment, and does not need a large body size to conserve heat.
Another exception is the alpine marmot, which is found in the mountains of Europe and Asia. The alpine marmot is larger than other marmots of a similar latitude, and is thought to be because the alpine marmot lives in a colder environment than other marmots.
Overall, Bergmann’s Rule is generally true, with a few exceptions. These exceptions are thought to be due to the different environmental conditions that the animals live in.
