Simulated predation pressure in Pelobates cultripes tadpoles modulates morphology at the metamorphic stage.

ABSTRACT: Studies on the impacts of variation of biotic interactions at key life cycle stages are crucial to understand the interface between ecological and developmental processes. Predators exert a major impact on prey fitness. Although direct consumption entails the greatest effect, predators can affect prey by means of other mechanisms. For instance, injuries inflicted by failed predation attempts can jeopardize prey fitness, even beyond the short-term. In anuran tadpoles, failed predation typically results in partial tail loss, which is known to reduce swimming speed. However, the potential consequences of tadpole partial tail loss after metamorphosis remain understudied. Because tail materials could be important in conforming metamorph body, we assess the effects of tadpole partial tail loss o

SUBMITTER: Zamora-Camacho FJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6911851 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature