The annual rhythm of fat deposition in woodchucks (Marmota monax) [Le rythme annuel d'accumulation des graisses chez les marmottes (M. monax)].

Résumé

The recognition of an annual rhythm of food consumption that is independent of the measured environmental conditions presents the problem of its relation to the annual rhythm of metabolism (Bailey,1965). Obviously, the two may be causally related or independent. Unfortunately, the relation cannot be unraveled until some means is discovered to dissociate the two. The relation to seasonal gonadal cycle also needs clarification. The initial stages occur in October or carlier. An extensive program of experiments is under way to test the hypothesis that decline in appetite (and hence fat deposition) depends upon the maturation of the reproductive system. So far, support has been obtained.The possibility exists that the rhythm depends upon a negative feedback from the deposition of fat to the appetite. However, the experiment (Table3) on deprivation and restriction does not support the idea, nor do miscellaneous observations of woodchucks in hibernation for long periods or recovered from illness. Further experiments are under way.