Beitrag zur Chemie der Thierfette

The effect of low environmental temperature on the composition of depot fat in relation to hibernation

“…There are indications, however, that domestication has some effect on the saturation of fats (Andre, 1925). Thus Amthor & Zink (1897) have demonstrated that wild rabbits, ducks and geese have more highly unsaturated fat than domesticated forms of the same species. Obviously, studies on other wild species are needed to ascertain whether it is a general characteristic of hibernating species either to maintain a high degree of unsaturation in their depot fat or to have the capacity to decrease its saturation in a cold environment in preparation for hibernation.…”