Transpiration rates and acclimation to water and temperature of the tropical woodlice, Porcellionides pruinosus Brandt and Porcellio laevis Latreille

Abstract

The transpiration rates and acclimation to water and temperature of Porcellionides pruinosus Brandt andPorcellio laevis Latreille, the common terrestrial isopods occurring in and around Trivandrum, India, were studied. Transpiration rates in different temperatures (24 to 50°C) were higher in both the species during the first 15 minutes exposure when compared to 1-hour duration. Previous acclimation to different humidity and temperature conditions affected the transpiration rates in both the species and lower rates of transpiration occurred in isopods acclimated to dry conditions and higher temperatures. Survival rates improved at lethal temperatures in specimens acclimated to 34°C.