Validation of doubly labeled water method using a ruminant.

CO2 production (CDP, ml CO2 . g-1 . h-1) by captive caribou and reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) was measured using the doubly labeled water method (3H2O and H2(18)O) and compared with CO2 expiration rates (VCO2), adjusted for CO2 losses in CH4 and urine, as determined by open-circuit respirometry.