2012 Itonaga et al PlosOne (evolution matrotrophy)[1].pdf (226.4 kB)
Effects of maternal basking and food quantity during gestation provide evidence for the selective advantage of matrotrophy in a viviparous lizard
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 12:44 authored by Itonaga, K, Susan JonesSusan Jones, Erik WapstraErik WapstraThe evolution of matrotrophy (i.e., direct supply of nutrients by the mother during gestation) may be associated with high maternal energy availability during gestation. However, we lack knowledge about the selective advantages of matrotrophic viviparity (live-bearing) in reptiles. In reptiles, the interaction between body temperature and food intake affect maternal net energy gain. In the present study, we examined the effects of basking and food availability (2 by 2 factorial design) during gestation on offspring phenotype in a matrotrophic viviparous lizard (Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii). Subsequently, we investigated if the maternal effects were context-dependent using offspring growth rate as an indicator of the adaptive significance of matrotrophy. Offspring were exposed either to the same thermal conditions as their mothers experienced or to thermal conditions different from those experienced by their mothers. We provide the first evidence that an interaction between maternal thermal and maternal food conditions during gestation strongly affects offspring phenotype, including date of birth, body size and performance ability, which affect offspring fitness. Offspring growth rate was dependent on offspring thermal conditions, but was not influenced by maternal effects or offspring sex. Matrotrophic viviparity provided gravid females with the means to enhance offspring fitness through greater energetic input to offspring when conditions allowed it (i.e., extended basking opportunity with high food availability). Therefore, we suggest that selective advantages of matrotrophic viviparity in P. entrecasteauxii may be associated with high maternal energy availability during gestation.
History
Publication title
PLoS-OneVolume
7Issue
7Article number
e41835Number
e41835Pagination
1-9ISSN
1932-6203Department/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
Public Library of SciencePlace of publication
1160 Battery St, Koshland E, Ste 100, SFO 94111 USRights statement
Copyright 2012 the authors.Repository Status
- Open