From electrocardiography to energetics: methods, constraints, and practical considerations for heart rate biologging in small animals.

Authors

Shannon E Currie, Asgeir Bjarnason, Clare Stawski

Published in

Journal of comparative physiology. B, Biochemical, systemic, and environmental physiology. Sep 24, 2026. Epub Sep 24, 2026.

Abstract

Physiological biologging is a flourishing field enabling researchers to answer fundamental questions about animal behaviour and physiology in their natural environment. As biologging devices are further miniaturised their use on small species (< 1.5 kg) is increasing-making this a pivotal time to review how this technology is being used, and what technological limitations and practices users must be aware of, to answer questions in small animals. Here we focus on the applications of devices that measure heart rate and their use as a proxy for energy expenditure in small terrestrial species. We outline essential considerations for programming (i.e. ECG sampling frequency) and placement of devices, and strongly advocate for the verification of heart rate measurements via ECG analysis where possible. As devices become smaller, cheaper, and more effective there is a growing capacity for integration of multiple sensors on a single device. This has broad implications for the study of energy budgets, stress and conservation management in small species. We encourage users of biologging technology to thoughtfully consider our recommendations to make the most of what this technology can offer.

PMID:
42782315
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 18 Oct 2026.

Read full publication at:
Please sign in to see all details.

Stats

1-terrible, 9-excellent. How would you rate this publication? Sign in in to submit your rating.

Post a comment

You need to be signed in to post comments. You can sign in here.

Comments

There are no comments yet.