Avian predation intensity as a driver of clinal variation in colour morph frequency

摘要: 1) Phenotypic variation provides the framework for natural selection to work upon , enabling adaptive evolution. One of most discernible manifestations phenotypic variability is colour variation. When this discrete, genetically -based pattern morphs occur simultaneously within a population. 2) Why and how polymorphisms are maintained an evolutionary puzzle. Several drivers have been hypothesized as influencing clinal patterns morph frequency, with spatial in climate predation being considered especially important. Despite this, no study has examined both their roles simultaneously. The aims were to: examine covariation physiology, environmental variables, colouration at local scale; determine if these factors interplay explain broad frequency. 3) We used lizard Liopholis whitii model system, species displays heritable polymorphism (plain -backed, patterned morphs) whose frequency varies latitudinally. measured reflectance, field activity temperatures, microhabitat structure test differences crypsis, thermal biology, plain -backed single population where sympatrically. then data from literature perform -scale analysis identify whether also explained latitudinal species. 4) At scale, found be less cryptic than while other detected terms dorsal use. broader was influential factor mediating across latitudes. However, observed opposite what modelling results suggest that incidence least highest pressure severe. Clinal level background matching between or potential reproductive advantage by may, instead, driving 5) Together, provide key insights into evolution adaptation well ecological forces involved dynamics polymorphism.