Maternal manipulation of offspring size can trigger the evolution of eusociality in promiscuous species.

ABSTRACT: Eusocial organisms typically live in colonies with one reproductive queen supported by thousands of sterile workers. It is widely believed that monogamous mating is a precondition for the evolution of eusociality. Here, we present a theoretical model that simulates a realistic scenario for the evolution of eusociality. In the model, mothers can evolve control over resource allocation to offspring, affecting offspring's body size. The offspring can evolve body-size-dependent dispersal, by which they disperse to breed or stay at the nest as helpers. We demonstrate that eusociality can evolve even if mothers are not strictly monogamous, provided that they can constrain their offspring's reproduction through manipulation. We also observe the evolution of social polymorphism with small individu

SUBMITTER: Rees-Baylis E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11331107 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature