The influence of a positive correlation between clutch size and offspring fitness on the optimal offspring size
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Evolutionary Ecology
Publication Date
4-1989
Volume
3
Issue
2
First Page
150
Last Page
156
Publisher
Springer Netherlands
Keywords
Optimal investment in offspring, Optimal offspring size, Offspring size variation
Abstract
The effect is modeled of a positive relationship between clutch size and offspring fitness on the optimal investment in offspring. In species which meet the assumptions of the model, the model predicts a positive correlation between maternal resource level and offspring size. If larger mothers are able to allocate more resources to offspring, then the model would also predict a positive correlation between maternal size and offspring size when the assumptions of the model are met. Thus, this model may help explain both among and within individual variation in offspring size. When offspring are produced in groups and the number of offspring killed per clutch is limited by predator satiation, offspring in larger clutches may experience a higher probability of survival. Such a life style may be found in animals such as sea turtles. Offspring size is positively correlated with maternal size in some members of this group.
DOI
10.1007/BF02270917
Print ISSN
02697653
E-ISSN
15738477
Publisher Statement
Copyright © Chapman and Hall Ltd. 1989. Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
McGinley, M. A. (1989). The influence of a positive correlation between clutch size and offspring fitness on the optimal offspring size. Evolutionary Ecology, 3(2), 150-156. doi: 10.1007/BF02270917