An experimental test of body volume constraint on female reproductive output

摘要: The body volume constraint hypothesis is a widely accepted notion that explains proximate limitation of female reproductive output, but lacks empirical support. To examine how determines we experimentally manipulated the lacertid lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis), to whether reduction in caused output. Clutch size and mass decreased with volume. Reproductive output (residual clutch mass, RCM) was negatively related (BVR) (RCM=−0.008BVR+0.225). In contrast, neither egg nor offspring affected by manipulation. Relative lower females than control females, actual physical burden (egg plus pearls) carried much bigger females. A normal eggs only filled 55% maternal volume, whereas used 75% contain pearls. Therefore, are capable carrying more clutch. Our observations provide unequivocal support for hypothesis. addition, these results suggest T. septentrionalis may produce fill available abdomen space an optimal level rather limit. J. Exp. Zool. 313A:123–128, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.