Gnaiger 1987 Optimum efficiencies

Gnaiger E (1987) Optimum efficiencies of energy transformation in anoxic metabolism. The strategies of power and economy. In Calow P (ed) Evolutionary physiological ecology. Cambridge Univ Press:7-36.

» Evolutionary physiological ecology

Gnaiger E (1987) Evolutionary physiological ecology

Abstract: We are all fascinated by high-power phenomena in nature, be they the flash-like jet-propulsion of an escaping squid, the outburst of energy in a hunting cheetah, or the explosive sprint of a racing athlete. The underlying physiological processes have evolved under the selective pressure of optimizing effective power strategy (P-strategy), just as the potential for rapid growth and reckless resource exploitation is rooted in r-selection of species.

A different kind of attraction stems from the vigilant economy prevailing in the living world. Economy-strategy (E-strategy) favours traits that not only use resources effectively, but efficiently. At the maximum input-output efficiency of energy transformation, however, the rate becomes infinitely slow. Therefore, maximum power output and maximum efficiency are mutually exclusive and consequently P- and E-strategy propagate divergent traits.

• Bioblast editor: Gnaiger E

Labels:

Stress:Hypoxia 

Preparation: Intact organism 

Regulation: ATP production, Coupling efficiency;uncoupling, Flux control 

Ergodynamic efficiency