Science June 1989 PMID 2740905

Freeze avoidance in a mammal: body temperatures below 0 degree C in an Arctic hibernator.

B M Barnes

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Peak: 2 in Sep 2022

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AI synopsis

What people are saying

The discussions clearly express interest and agreement, with comments like 'can drop their core temperature to as low as -2.9°C,' emphasizing the remarkable nature of these findings. The choice of words such as 'drop,' 'avoid freezing,' and specific temperature figures highlights both curiosity and respect for the research, while the tone remains informative and appreciative of its significance.

AgreementModerate agreement

Most discussions affirm the findings about the arctic ground squirrels' ability to avoid freezing at very low body temperatures, indicating agreement on the significance of the research.

InterestHigh interest

The tweets demonstrate high interest by highlighting surprising facts about hibernation and mentioning specific temperature details, which captivate curiosity.

EngagementModerate engagement

Participants actively discuss the physiological adaptations and implications, showing thoughtful engagement beyond superficial remarks.

ImpactModerate impact

The discussion reflects an appreciation for the research's importance in understanding freeze avoidance, which could influence broader scientific perspectives on mammalian hibernation.

Abstract in brief

Hibernating arctic ground squirrels can spontaneously raise their body temperature from as low as 29°C without freezing, even when their core temperatures are below 0°C.
During outdoor hibernation, these squirrels' abdominal temperatures can drop as low as 19°C, and soil temperatures at their burrows can go down to about 6°C, yet they avoid freezing.
Laboratory studies showed that despite body temperatures dropping below 0°C, the squirrels' plasma solute levels remain normal, and there is no evidence of antifreeze molecules, indicating they employ other freeze-avoidance strategies.

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All mentions

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Real Science · Feb 18, 2023 1,598,742 views

Arctic Ground Squirrels Survive Freezing Temperatures During Hibernation

During hibernation, the Arctic ground squirrel drops its core body temperature below freezing, reaching lows of 29C without freezing. Discover how this rodent uses biological adaptations like supercooled blood and…

Proof of Concept Creatives · Aug 6, 2025 1,766 views

citrushark

@citrushark · X

RT @citrushark: #FactFriday during hibernation, arctic ground squirrels (Urocitellus parryii) can drop their core temperature to as low as…

Sep 10, 2022 · 1 share · 1,213 followers View post →