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Potentially adaptive effects of maternal nutrition during gestation on offspring phenotype of a viviparous reptile
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 09:24 authored by Chloe BibariChloe Bibari, Susan JonesSusan Jones, Erik WapstraErik WapstraViviparous reptiles have been used as model species for many studies that seek to explain the evolution of viviparity. The vast majority of such studies have focused on the advantage viviparity provides with regards to maternal control of embryonic developmental temperature. However, viviparity may also allow increased control of nutrient transfer, such that mothers adaptively manipulate offspring phenotype through varying maternal nutritional support. Because maternal nutritional transfer is temperature dependent, maternal nutritional strategies may vary between climatically distinct populations. In this study we used an orthogonal experimental design in which mothers and offspring from climatically distinct populations of a viviparous skink (Niveoscincus ocellatus) were allocated randomly to either a protein-rich or a protein-poor diet. Our results suggest that N. ocellatus mothers are able to compensate for sub-optimal nutritional conditions and can adaptively manipulate offspring phenotype to best fit the postnatal nutritional environment. Furthermore, maternal nutritional strategies appear to vary between climatically distinct populations. These results suggest that in viviparous reptiles, matrotrophy provides a means of producing an adaptive offspring phenotype, in addition to maternal control of developmental temperature.
History
Publication title
Journal of Experimental BiologyVolume
214Issue
24Pagination
4234-4239ISSN
0022-0949Department/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
Company Of Biologists LtdPlace of publication
Bidder Building Cambridge Commercial Park Cowley Rd, Cambridge, England, Cambs, Cb4 4DlRights statement
Copyright 2011 The Company of Biologists LtdRepository Status
- Restricted