Sex or cannibalism: Polyphenism and kin recognition control social action strategies in nematodes
James W. Lightfoot, Mohannad Dardiry, Ata Kalirad, Stefano Giaimo, Gabi Eberhardt, Hanh Witte, Martin Wilecki, Christian Rödelsperger, Arne Traulsen, Ralf J. Sommer
Abstract
showed that killing inversely correlates with genomic relatedness. These empirical data together with theory reveal that polyphenism (plasticity), kin recognition, and relatedness are three major factors that shape cannibalistic behaviors. Thus, developmental plasticity influences cooperative versus competitive social action strategies in diverse animals.
Topics & Concepts
PolyphenismCannibalismAction (physics)Kin selectionBiologyInclusive fitnessKin recognitionCommunicationEcologyZoologyPhenotypic plasticityLarvaPsychologyQuantum mechanicsPhysicsInsect and Arachnid Ecology and BehaviorEvolutionary Game Theory and CooperationGenetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organisms