Effect of browse on post-ingestive energy loss in an Arctic ruminant: implications for muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) in relation to vegetation change
Shrubs are predicted to dominate tundra with warmer temperatures at northern latitudes. We tested the null hypothesis that addition of browse to a graminoid diet would not alter post-ingestive energy loss in muskoxen ( Ovibos moschatus (Zimmermann, 1780)). Energy losses over 8 h following feeding were used to test our hypothesis. Willows ( Salix alaxensis (Anderss.) Coville, Salix planifolia ssp. pulchra (Cham.) Argus) and birch ( Betula nana L.) (twigs in winter, leaves in summer) were separately mixed at graded levels (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) with chopped hay ( Bromus inermis Leyss.) and fed as single meals to muskoxen. Meals containing ≥60% browse were often partially or completely rejected. Meals containing 20%–60% woody or leafy S. alaxensis or S. p. pulchra resulted in higher energy expenditure than meals of 100% hay. Meals containing 20%–60% woody B. nana tended to decrease energy expenditure relative to 100% hay, while 20%–60% leafy B. nana was similar to 100% hay. We conclude there is an energy cost associated with consuming browse. This cost varies by browse species and type. Since muskoxen tolerated up to 40% browse in the diet, this cost may be within their ecological tolerance. This tolerance has important implications under global warming scenarios.