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Production of different phenotypes from the same genotype in the same environment by developmental variation
Günter Vogt1, Martin Huber, Markus Thiemann
1Zoological Institute and Museum, University of Greifswald, Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Strasse 11/12, D-17487 Greifswald, Germany. gunter.vogt@web.de
The Journal of Experimental Biology
|February 5, 2008
Summary
Developmental variation (DV) creates unique phenotypes in genetically identical organisms, even under identical conditions. This study introduces the marbled crayfish as a model to investigate DV
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Phenotype results from genes, environment, and stochastic events.
- Developmental variation (DV) is crucial but understudied due to lack of models.
- Parthenogenetic marbled crayfish offer a novel model for DV research.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate developmental variation (DV) in a clonal organism.
- Explore the sources and extent of phenotypic diversity in isogenic individuals.
- Assess the role of DV in generating individuality and influencing population dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized isogenic, parthenogenetic marbled crayfish.
- Maintained clonal batch-mates under identical environmental conditions.
- Analyzed phenotypic traits (coloration, growth, lifespan, behavior, etc.) and epigenetic markers (DNA methylation, fluctuating asymmetry).
Main Results:
- Identical marbled crayfish exhibited significant variation in multiple traits, including unique coloration patterns.
- Variation was observed in epigenetic markers like DNA methylation and fluctuating asymmetry.
- DV occurred across all life stages, influenced by early patterning and later self-reinforcing circuits.
Conclusions:
- Individual genotypes can produce diverse phenotypes through DV, even in clonal populations.
- DV introduces randomness into life histories, impacting fitness and population dynamics.
- DV is a significant factor in generating individuality and has implications for evolutionary biology.
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