Trophic niche divergence among colour morphs that exhibit alternative mating tactics

摘要: Discrete colour morphs associated with alternative mating tactics are assumed to be ecologically equivalent. Yet suites of behaviours linked reproduction can also favour habitat segregation and exploitation different prey among morphs. By contrast, trophic polymorphisms usually attributed exhibiting or selectivity. An hypothesis is that variation generates a polymorphism driven by differences in morph reproductive behaviour, the spatial dispersion landscape their exposure types. In this scenario, allowed vary diet selectivity (e.g. specialist generalist) as they do rather than being exhibit equivalent levels ecological specialization. We test using male Urosaurus ornatus lizards discrete dewlap reflects tactics. found blue specialize on at higher levels, yellow males display plasticity morphological attributes orange generalists. Our results demonstrate enhanced resource-limited habitats. conclude behavioural may diverge morphology niche. Jointly, these processes enhance speciation rates polymorphic taxa.