Metabolic responses induced by fasting in the common vampire bat Desmodus rotundus.

Abstract

This study explored the effects of fasting on body fuel mobilization in the common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) fed a high-protein diet (bovine blood). An uncommon fragility during food deprivation has been reported for this species to the point of untimely deaths after only 2-3 nights of fasting. The immediate biochemical responses to fasting, however, have not been established. Thus, blood glucose, plasma FFA, glycogen, protein, and fat concentrations in the liver and muscles were determined in fed and 24-, 48- and 72 h-fasted individuals. The results indicate that D. rotundus is unable to maintain adequate levels of blood glucose during fasting, probably due to low tissue stores of energy fuels or difficulty in mobilizing them. Other factors may play an important role in this species abundance, such as the previously reported behavior of reciprocal blood regurgitation.