Respiratory development in a captive-born bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus calf

Abstract

Changes in calf-mother association are examined and correlated to respiratory changes. This calf-mother respiratory association disappears within the first year. Data indicate that the first 6 h post partum are the most critical in gaining respiratory efficiency. Although respiratory data were only collected during periods of rest, changes in respiration rate appear to be strongly associated with the metabolic state of the calf. Stress loads of various forms affect the maximum breathhold ability more than the mean respiration rate. The mean length of apneustic plateau increased from 24 s to 40 s during the 18 month study period.