The effect of age on the thermal preference of white mice (Mus musculus) and gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus)

Abstract

Selected temperatures were determined for white mice and gerbils of various ages tested in a horizontal thermogradient chamber. Although the temperature preference of both species was initially high, it decreased at different rates, and reached the adult level at about 5 weeks of age in white mice, and 12 weeks in gerbils. These ages correspond closely with the reported time of attainment of sexual maturity in both species. In addition, determination of metabolic rates for white mice of various ages suggested that adult heat production and the adult level of selected temperature were reached at about the same age.