Photic Response Parameters of Circadian Rhythms in The Spinifex Hopping Mouse, Notomys alexis.

Abstract

Circadian rhythms are generated endogenously by biological clocks or 'pacemakers', which are responsive to significant environmental stimuli termed zeitgebers. Interactions between pacemakers and zeitgebers provide the basis for synchronisation by light-dark (LD) cycles, and the characteristics of each of these elements determines the phase-relations maintained between an animal's circadian activity rhythms and the natural temporal environment. We report here the basic photic response parameters for an Australian native rodent, Notomys alexis. Under controlled conditions of constant darkness or constant light, N. alexis were found to 'free-run', and with periods different from 24 hours. Under LD cycles N. alexis were strictly nocturnal although, compared to other rodents, entrainment to LD cycles was relatively unstable. This may indicate that N. alexis are not strongly dependent on the LD cycle as a zeitgeber.