Reference

Lema, S. C. 2008. The phenotypic plasticity of Death Valley's pupfish. American Scientist 96(1):28-36.

Abstract

The article discusses the role of phenotypic plasticity in shaping the phenotypic diversity of Death Valley's pupfishes. Patterns of phenotypic variation among pupfish populations are generated in part through the plastic developmental responses of fish to their ecologically distinct habitats. This finding suggests that what are considered population- or species-specific phenotypes can be malleable and depend in part on the development of that population in the unique habitats where they live. And when the habitats change, species' phenotypic characteristics may quickly follow.

Tag

Visible Implant Elastomer (VIE)

Objective

Observe behavior

Evaluate habitat use

Understand phenotypic variation