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Evolution of behavior by density-dependent natural selection.

P Z Guo1, L D Mueller, F J Ayala

  • 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine 92717.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
|December 1, 1991
PubMed
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Fruit flies evolved enhanced survival and reproduction in crowded conditions by altering larval feeding and pupation behaviors. These adaptations demonstrate evolutionary responses to density-dependent natural selection.

Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Population Genetics
  • Behavioral Ecology

Background:

  • Density-dependent natural selection theory predicts adaptation for higher population growth rates under specific densities.
  • However, the precise mechanisms driving these adaptive increases in growth rates remain underexplored.
  • Evolutionary responses to environmental pressures are fundamental to understanding species adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the evolutionary mechanisms underlying density-dependent natural selection in Drosophila melanogaster.
  • To observe how populations adapt their growth rates and behaviors when moved from low-density to high-density environments.
  • To identify behavioral changes that enhance competitive ability and survival in crowded conditions.

Main Methods:

Related Experiment Videos

  • Six populations of Drosophila melanogaster were maintained at low-population density for 200 generations.
  • These populations were then transferred to high-density environments for 25 generations.
  • Changes in population growth rates at both high and low densities were measured.
  • Larval feeding and pupation behaviors were analyzed in evolved populations.

    • Main Results:

    • All six populations exhibited increased population growth rates at high densities after 25 generations.
    • A concurrent decrease in growth rates at low densities was observed.
    • Evolved populations showed altered larval behaviors, including higher feeding rates.
    • Larvae from high-density evolved populations were less likely to pupate near the food source.

    Conclusions:

    • Drosophila melanogaster populations rapidly evolve increased fitness in high-density conditions through behavioral modifications.
    • These behavioral changes, specifically in feeding and pupation, enhance larval competitive ability and reduce mortality.
    • The study provides insights into the mechanisms of density-dependent natural selection and life history trade-offs.