Differences in growth within and across the reproductive forms of northern crayfish (Faxonius virilis).

ABSTRACT: Complex life histories are frequently associated with biological trade-offs, as the use of one trait can decrease the performance of a second trait due to the need to balance competing demands to maximize fitness. Here, we examine growth patterns in invasive adult male northern crayfish (Faxonius virilis) that are indicative of a potential trade-off between energy allocation for body size versus chelae size growth. Northern crayfish undergo cyclic dimorphism, a process characterized by seasonal morphological changes associated with reproductive status. We measured carapace length and chelae length before and after molting and compared these growth increments between the four morphological transitions of the northern crayfish. Consistent with our predictions, reproductive crayfish mo

SUBMITTER: Cabrera D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10191776 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature