Energetics of locomotion in a monotreme, the echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus.

The steady state oxygen consumption of two echidnas was measured during locomotion on a treadmill. The change in power input with change in velocity is similar to that found in other mammals, but the total energy requirement for locomotion is less. The significance of these findings in an animal with low basal metabolism and distally heavy limbs is discussed.