Comparative Thermal and Osmoregulatory Physiology in Desert and Wetland Vertebrates Under Rapid Climate-Induced Temperature Shifts

Abstract

Background: Vertebrate thermal and osmoregulatory physiology are being challenged by the rising dramatic and unexpected temperature swings brought on by rapid climate change. Wetland and desert species are perfect for comparative research since they face different environmental stresses.

Objective: To compare the thermal and osmoregulatory responses of desert and wetland vertebrates under rapid climate-induced temperature shifts.

Methodology: Six vertebrate species (three desert: lizard, rodent, bird; three wetlands: frog, freshwater fish, turtle) were studied, with 15 adult individuals per species (n = 90). Field sampling in representative habitats was combined with controlled laboratory experiments. Thermal physiology (CTmax, CTmin, preferred body temperature, ΔT under rapid shifts) and osmoregulatory parameters (body mass change, plasma osmolality, hematocrit, urine osmolality, evaporative water loss, plasma electrolytes) were measured. Seasonal variations and acute responses were evaluated, and statistical analyses were conducted using mixed-effects models and ANOVA (p < 0.05).

Results: Desert species exhibited higher thermal tolerance (CTmax 44.52–48.27 °C vs. 32.85–34.08 °C), broader thermal ranges (33.47–35.81 °C vs. 26.64–29.29 °C), smaller body mass changes (−3.18–4.02% vs. −6.79–8.53%), higher plasma osmolality (309.73–314.88 vs. 274.87–280.44 mOsm/kg), and lower evaporative water loss (0.79–1.22 vs. 2.03–2.51 g/h) than wetland species. Plasma electrolytes were consistently higher in desert vertebrates. Seasonal effects influenced both groups, but desert species maintained more stable long-term physiological performance.

Conclusion: Desert vertebrates demonstrate superior thermal tolerance and osmoregulatory capacity, indicating resilience to rapid climate variability, whereas wetland species are more vulnerable to abrupt temperature and hydration stress. These findings highlight habitat-specific adaptations and have implications for predicting species responses to global warming