Data from: Heating rates are more strongly influenced by near-infrared than visible reflectance in beetles
Data files
Sep 27, 2021 version files 343.84 KB
-
Data_for_R_analysis.zip
14.60 KB
-
elytra_reflectance.xlsx
244.24 KB
-
filter_transmission.xlsx
55 KB
-
irradiance_of_the_solar_simulator.xlsx
13.65 KB
-
Micro-CT_data_link.rtf
4.34 KB
-
README.xlsx
12.01 KB
Sep 29, 2021 version files 343.86 KB
-
Data_for_R_analysis.zip
14.60 KB
-
elytra_reflectance.xlsx
244.24 KB
-
filter_transmission.xlsx
55 KB
-
irradiance_of_the_solar_simulator.xlsx
13.65 KB
-
Micro-CT_data_link.rtf
4.34 KB
-
README.xlsx
12.02 KB
Abstract
Adaptations to control heat transfer through the integument are a key component of temperature regulation in animals. However, there remain significant gaps in our understanding of how different optical and morphological properties of the integument affect heating rates. To address these gaps, we examined the effect of reflectivity in both ultraviolet-visible and near-infrared wavelengths, surface micro-sculpturing, effective area (area subjected to illumination) and cuticle thickness on radiative heat gain in jewel beetles (Buprestidae). We measured heating rate using a solar simulator to mimic natural sunlight, a thermal chamber to control the effects of conduction and convection, and optical filters to isolate different wavelengths. We found that effective area and reflectivity predicted heating rate. The thermal effect of reflectivity was driven by variation in near-infrared rather than ultraviolet-visible reflectivity. By contrast, cuticle thickness and surface rugosity had no detectable effect. Our results provide empirical evidence that near-infrared reflectivity has an important effect on radiative heat gain. Modulating reflectance of near-infrared wavelengths of light may be a more widespread adaptation to control heat gain than previously appreciated.