Respirometry — as applied to terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates

Abstract

A review is presented of the apparatus and techniques used to determine the oxygen consumption rate (MO₂) of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates. The classic manometric method (especially constant pressure respirometry) has been extensively used in the past to measure MO₂. At present this method is still being used with success for small invertebrates weighing less than 1 mg in live weight. The more modern electrochemical techniques have the advantage that measurements can be made over longer time intervals because these instruments are better suited to automation. MO₂ measurements were first performed on aquatic animals with polarographic oxygen sensors. After the invention of the zirkonium oxygen sensor it is now possible to make accurate measurements of MO₂ on bigger terrestrial invertebrates.