Measuring metabolic rates : a manual for scientists / John R.B. Lighton.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 193-196) and index.

A brief history of metabolic measurement -- Constant volume and constant pressure respirometry -- Coulometric respirometry -- Constant volume techniques using gas analysis -- Aquatic oxygen analysis -- Direct calorimetry -- Measuring field metabolic rates -- Flowthrough respirometry : overview -- Flowthrough respirometry : the equations -- Flowthrough respirometry using incurrent flow measurement -- Flowthrough respirometry using excurrent flow measurement -- Validating flowthrough respirometry -- Metabolic data analysis and presentation -- The varieties of gas analyzers -- The varieties of flow meters -- The varieties of Activity detectors -- The varieties of scrubbers, tubing and tubing connectors.

Measuring metabolic rates is central to important questions in many areas of scientific research. Unfortunately these measurements are anything but straightforward, and numerous pitfalls await the novice and even the experienced investigator. This book de-mystifies the field, explaining every common variation of metabolic rate measurement, from century-old manometric methods through ingenious syringe-based techniques, direct calorimetry, aquatic respirometry, stable-isotope metabolic measurement and every type of flow-through respirometry. Each variation is described in enough detail to allow it to be applied in practice. Background information on different analyzer and equipment types allows users to choose the best instruments for their application. Respirometry equations--normally a topic of terror and confusion to researchers--are derived and described in enough detail to make their selection and use effortless. Vital topics such as manual and automated baselining, implementing multi-animal systems, and the correct analysis and presentation of metabolic data are covered in enough detail to turn a respirometry neophyte into a hardened metabolic warrior, ready to take on the task of publication in peer-reviewed journals.