Optimal allocation of effort between reproductive phases: the trade-off between incubation costs and subsequent brood rearing capacity

摘要: The optimal allocation of effort during reproduction is a key component life history theory, with trade­ offs predicted to operate both within and between reproductive attempts. Experimental work in this field has largely concentrated on the latter. need partition investment different phases reproduction, how varies individuals, received little empirical investigation. In study, costs incubation phase common terns Sterna hirundo were increased independently those egg production brood rearing phases. Incubation clutch three eggs, rather than two originally laid, reduced subsequent capacity parents provision their two, demonstrating an important trade-off that generally been omitted estimations size. These results show for first time increase alone, which have often considered relatively trivial, can significantly depress parental performance later same breeding attempt. effect was found be most marked lower quality pairs, demonstrates individuals differ compensate deviations from