ISSN:
1573-5117
Keywords:
Rotifera
;
bdelloids
;
egg volume
;
RES
;
trade-off
;
fecundity
;
recovery
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Egg volumes or relative egg size (RES) of seven bdelloid species were plotted against life-history traits, and recovery rates from 7-day desiccation periods to find evidence for the costs and benefits of producing a few big, or many small eggs. Increased RES of bdelloids is correlated with decreased fecundity and longevity, increased age at maturity, increased egg developmental time and increased recovery from desiccation for both embryos and adults. The production of large eggs represents a cost for the bdelloid rotifer, which, at first sight, does not receive compensating advantages. This paradox, however, is only superficial, as it is suggested that an increase of recovery and, in particular, increased viability of late embryos compensates for the loss of fitness related to the production of large eggs.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1017094627751
