Phenotypic variation in metamorphosis and paedomorphosis in the salamander Ambystoma talpoideum
Phenotypic variation in metamorphosis and paedomorphosis in the salamander Ambystoma talpoideum was examined to determine its environmental or genetic basis. Eight artificial ponds were maintained, four at each of two environmental treatments: constant water level, to simulate fish-free permanent breeding ponds, and gradual drying out, to simulate temporary breeding ponds. Two populations of salamanders were used, derived from two breeding ponds having different frequencies of paedomorphosis. The water level in the drying treatment was lowered during the last 10 wk of the experimental period with no apparent differences in water chemistry parameters between treatments and only a slight change in water temperature during the last 2 wk. The effects of water level were potentially confounded by those of water temperature, density of larvae, and amount food. Population differences in the frequency of metamorphosis and paedomorphosis could potentially represent genetic differences resulting from the different selective regimes that individuals encounter in breeding ponds varying in drying frequency. 35 references, 3 figures, 4 tables.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Georgia, Aiken, SC
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC09-76SR00819
- OSTI ID:
- 6915123
- Journal Information:
- Ecology (Engl. Transl.); (United States), Journal Name: Ecology (Engl. Transl.); (United States) Vol. 66:4; ISSN ECGYA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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