Ecophysiology of a small ectotherm tracks environmental variation along an elevational cline

Aim Physiological responses to climate can be used quantify the environmental limits that a species tolerate and are, therefore, key biogeographical studies. Several ecophysiological climatic factors may shape distribution of species, but our knowledge is mostly centred in thermal ecophysiology. We applied an integrative approach investigate how small ectotherm are modulated by variation across elevational gradient. Location Victoria, Australia. Taxon Lampropholis guichenoti (Scincidae, Squamata). Methods examined metabolic rate, evaporative water loss, physiology locomotor performance, four populations skink gradient Australia (17–1546 m). biophysical modelling test behaviour impacts survival activity these skinks. Results Populations from lowlands had lower rates preferences, higher optimal temperatures increased performance compared high elevations. Biophysical models revealed allows skinks elevation maintain their body above freezing determining patterns. Main conclusions Our holistic study shows combination physiological behavioural ectotherms survive different environments. The interplay between help explain sets for geographical range ectotherms.