Phenotypic design, plasticity, and ecological performance in two tadpole species

Article Abstract:

A comparative study of two types of tadpole, Pseudacris crucifer and Pseudacris triseriata, reveals a dependence of the phenotypes on the changes in ecology. The development of P. triseriata, which metamorphoses from pools with and without predators, is quicker than that of P. crucifer. P. crucifer exhibits less changes in the phenotype and avoids predation by the dragonfly larvae, Aeshna juncea. The presence of Aeshna induces an increase in the size of the tail fin and tail muscles and an activity decrease in P. triseriata.

Influence, Ecology, Tadpoles

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Proximate and ultimate aspects of phenotypic plasticity in timing of great tit breeding in a heterogeneous environment

Article Abstract:

A study suggests that great tits (Parus major) adapt their reproductive timing to the best time for rearing young, but changes in environmental conditions can affect change in timing. The study, by using the theoretical framework of phenotypic plasticity, discusses the timing of breeding in great tits, combining proximate questions about physiological causation and final question regarding its fitness. Apart from being affected by changes in environmental condition, laying dates of experienced tits were also affected.

Environmental aspects, Adaptation (Biology), Evolutionary adaptation, Breeding, Great tit

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Phenotypic plasticity as a product of selection in a variable environment

Article Abstract:

The reaction norm model and the character state model can suitably predict the selection on two plastic traits in an environment, heterogeneous to environmental variables. The reaction norm model describes the variance of any traits through the environment and the covariance of two traits across the conditions. The two models are mathematically equivalent and a linear transformation of each other. The character state model has more applicability compared to the reaction norm model.

Models, Observations, Adaptation (Physiology), Physiological adaptation, Gene expression

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