ISSN:
1420-9071
Keywords:
Chrysopa
;
prey specificity
;
general predator
;
speciation
;
behavioural plasticity
;
individual repeatability
;
reproductive isolation
;
geographic variation
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Comparative experiments with two extant sister-species ofChrysopa provide the first demonstration of mechanisms whereby a general predator (e.g., aC. quadripunctata-like ancestor) may have given rise to a specialist (C. slossonae). First, the generalist expresses characteristics (e.g., phenotypic plasticity in larval and adult behaviour, defence-related morphology) that promote establishment on the specialist's ant-tended prey. Second, the patterns of variation among populations of the generalist suggest heritability and repeatability in traits that influence survival and reproduction on the specialist's prey — a requirement for evolutionary adaptation to the specific prey. Third, sympatric populations of the generalist and specialist have ovolved reproductive isolation, thus maintaining prey fidelity. This descriptive model appears broadly applicable to predacious as well as herbacious insects.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01929924
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