Electrographic and Behavioral Correlates of Sleep in the Fringe-Toed Lizard, 'Uma notata',
Abstract
Behavioral and electrographic aspects of sleep in Uma notata were investigated. These burrowing lizards slept during the presence and absence of sand, under conditions of constant light and temperature (37 + or - 1 C). When sand was present, most of their sleep bahavior occurred while burrowed. Under constant light and temperature, burrowing continued, but was arrhythmic. While exposed to an 8-hr light, 16-hr dark photoperiod (temperature remaining constant), a rhythmicity in burrowing periodicity developed, in all lizards, after 7 days. The animals burrowed in relation to the termination of the light cycle. Light appeared to be a prime exogenous mechanism regulating an internal biological clock in these lizards. These lizards exhibited two distinct patterns of electroencephalograms during sleep. A high-voltage, slow-wave electroencephalogram alternated with a lower voltage, faster frequency wave form. The low-voltage desynchronized EEG sleep pattern occupied 31% of the total sleep time. Eye movement bursts of brief duration were generally accompanied by the low voltage, fast-wave EEG. While burrowed, 5.7% of the total sleep time was occupied by eye movements. No change in neck muscle tonus was observed during sleep.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- ADA037475
Entities
People
- Don Hunsaker Ii
- Laverne C. Johnson
- Stephen W. Stropes
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center