Factors influencing the growth of the little auk, Plautus alle (L.), nestlings on Spitsbergen

Streszczenie w języku polskim

Strony 557-581 : ilustracje ; 24 cm

Pages 557-581 : illustrations ; 24 cm

The growth rate of the nestlings of the little auk is the highest among Alcidae (K = 0.256, t10-90 = 17.2 days). The peak weight represents 77.3%, and the fledging weight 67.3% of the weight of adult birds. The high growth rate, short nesting period and relatively small body size at fledging are the expression of an evolutional tendency of the nestlings of the little auk to precocity which is a form of adaptation of the species to reproduction in high-arctic conditions. The prefledging body-weight fall improves the locomotory capability and physiological efficiency of juvenile birds leaving a breeding colony. Egg size, related to the body size of parent birds, has a significant influence on the growth and development of the nestlings. In the period that precedes the leaving of the nest a tendency is seen towards a uniform body size of the nestlings through changes in the length of the nesting period, and the magnitude of the prefledging body-weight decrease.

Abstract in Polish

Bibliographical references (pages 579-581)

Bibliografia na stronach 579-581