SGER: Phusiological Factors Controlling the &18 O Values of Body Water for Coexisting Endotherms and Ectotherms

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9904284SharpWe propose to measure the oxygen isotope composition of bones from modern endothermic (warm-blooded) and ectothermic (cold-blooded) species that occupy the same habitats in order to see if their different metabolisms can be distinguished isotopically. The oxygen isotope values of coexisting bird, mammal and reptile bones coming from the same locality will be determined (samples are available from the University of New Mexico Biology Museum). Isotopic differences will be modeled using known physiological factors. Our ultimate goal is to use the oxygen isotope composition of extinct species (e.g., dinosaurs) to constrain their physiology. The modern analogues -- birds, mammals and reptiles --- will form the basis for our assessment of fossil species.