Laboratory populations as a resource for understanding the relationship between genotypes and phenotypes: A global case study in locusts

摘要: Publisher Summary The expression of phenotypic plasticity is widespread in insects. One the most extraordinary and economically devastating examples found locusts. In contrast to typical grasshoppers, locust species express an extreme form density-dependent known as “phase polyphenism.” Environmental factors such temperature, photoperiod, resource availability population density, are affect development a myriad traits that have consequences for individual performance, ecology, life-history, fitness subsequent evolution. Given their diversity responses amenability experimental manipulation rearing lab, insects continue play important role model organisms empirical analyses fundamental relationships between genotypes phenotypes animals. Critical conclusions recommendations from analysis recent laboratory stocks, findings broadly applicable across taxa any research program also given chapter.