Maternal source of variability in the embryo development of an annual killifish

摘要: Organisms inhabiting unpredictable environments often evolve diversified reproductive bet-hedging strategies, expressed as production of multiple offspring phenotypes, thereby avoiding complete failure. To cope with rainfall, African annual killifish from temporary savannah pools lay drought-resistant eggs that vary widely in the duration embryo development. We examined sources variability individual development, egg and fertilization rate Nothobranchius furzeri. Using a quantitative genetics approach (North Carolina Type II design) we found support for maternal effects rather than polyandrous mating primary source The number previously laid appeared to serve an internal physiological cue initiating shift rapid slow developmental mode. In extensive phenotypic progeny traits is adaptive, conditions experienced by parents have limited relevance generation. contrast genetic control, high expression heritability, control under natural selection prevents standing diversity potentially detrimental fluctuating environments. This article protected copyright. All rights reserved.