Geographic Cline in Damselfly Morph Frequencies
Author Information
Author(s): Takahashi Yuma, Morita Satoru, Yoshimura Jin, Watanabe Mamoru
Primary Institution: Tohoku University
Hypothesis
A large-scale smooth cline in morph frequency is established by negative frequency-dependent selection (NFDS) in the damselfly Ischnura senegalensis.
Conclusion
The study suggests that NFDS and gene-by-environment interaction explain the geographic cline in morph frequency in Ischnura senegalensis.
Supporting Evidence
- A smooth latitudinal cline in morph frequency was observed over 1100 km.
- The frequency of andromorphs ranged from 0.05 in the south to 0.79 in the north.
- The potential fitness of andromorphs was lower in the south and higher in the north.
Takeaway
This study shows that in some damselflies, the different color types can live together in certain areas because of how often they are seen, which helps them survive.
Methodology
Field surveys were conducted in 22 local populations to record morph frequencies and estimate potential fitness based on morphological traits.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to limited dispersal and isolation of populations may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Limitations
The study assumes that morphological traits are independent of male sexual harassment, which may not always be valid.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on female dimorphic damselflies, specifically Ischnura senegalensis, across various latitudes in Japan.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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