Discrete embryonic character variation uncovers hidden ecological adaptations in lacertid lizards.

ABSTRACT: Embryogenesis is the first step in the ontogenetic life journey of any individual, and is thus a starting point for natural selection to cause evolutionary change. There are slight variations in the timing of embryonic development, known as heterochrony, which may eventually lead to major differences in adult anatomy. To test this hypothesis, the embryonic development of three closely related lizard species, Darevskia armeniaca, Lacerta agilis, and L. viridis, which are adapted to different habitats, was compared by analyzing discrete timing characters. Both intra- and interspecific variation was detected. The latter may be interpreted as embryonic pre-adaptions to later adult lifestyles, demonstrating that developmental penetrance manifests within a few million years. Traits with large in

SUBMITTER: Schlindwein X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11520946 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature