Data from: Speeding up growth: selection for mass-independent maximal metabolic rate alters growth rates

Investigations into relationships between life-history traits, such as
growth rate and energy metabolism, typically focus on basal metabolic rate
(BMR). In contrast, investigators rarely examine maximal metabolic rate
(MMR) as a relevant metric of energy metabolism, even though it indicates
the maximal capacity to metabolize energy aerobically, and hence it might
also be important in trade-offs. We studied the relationship between
energy metabolism and growth in mice (Mus musculus domesticus Linnaeus)
selected for high mass-independent metabolic rates. Selection for high
mass-independent MMR increased maximal growth rate, increased body mass at
20 weeks of age, and generally altered growth patterns in both male and
female mice. In contrast, there was little evidence that the correlated
response in mass-adjusted BMR altered growth patterns. The relationship
between mass-adjusted MMR and growth rate indicates that MMR is an
important mediator of life histories. Studies investigating associations
between energy metabolism and life histories should consider MMR, as it is
potentially as important in understanding life history as basal metabolic
rate.