by Leung Man-sing. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1981. / Bibliography: leaves 145-166.

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The effects of experimental variables (wind speed, fluid type, animal restraint, etc.) on the thermal time constant are analyzed. Results suggest that insufficient attention paid to these variables has resulted in equivocal results. A model is proposed that could normalize some of these variables and provide a better basis for the theoretical interpretation of reptile thermal ecology. Modelled literature data indicate that: (1) very small reptiles (20 g or less) are able to control their rates of heat exchange; (2) aquatic reptiles probably have the same ability to thermoregulate as terrestrial reptiles; (3) variations in the reported thermal time constants of turtles might reflect changes in surface area; (4) changes in humidity (without condensation) will not affect Tau; (5) constant or variable metabolic rates cannot account for differences between heating and cooling thermal time constants; (6) constant or variable metabolic rates are not likely to lead to the evolution of homeothermy.

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Copies of author's previously published articles inserted. / Bibliography: leaves 89-123. / iv, 123, [21] leaves, [21] plates : col. ill. ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / The aims of this study are to morphologically examine the structure of the Hardorian gland within major squamate clades and to infer its potential role as a source of secretion for the squamate VNO. The thesis identifies some evolutionary trends in Harderian gland, olfactory mucosae and VNO structure across a range of taxa. Representative species exhibiting olfactory (Gekkota) or vomerolfactory (Serpentes) specialisation and generalised nasal chemosensory adaptation (Scincomorpha) are examined. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Anatomical Sciences, 1997

Call number: LD2668 .T4 1986 M46 / Master of Science / Biology

The thermal environment exerts a strong influence on many aspectsof squamate life history. Environmental temperatures constrain daily activity time, fecundity, growth rate, and also influences hatchling phenotype. Cold nest temperatures can slow the development of eggs deposited in the soil, cause developmental abnormalities or result in mortality of embryos.