Predator-Induced Phenotypical Change in Body Morphology in Crucian Carp

• DOI: 10.1126/science.258.5086.1348
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T23:03:06Z
• Authors: Christer Brönmark; Jeffrey G. Miner
• Keywords: Crucian carp; Morphology

In a field experiment where the presence or absence of piscivorous pike ( Esox lucius ) in ponds was manipulated, morphology crucian carp Carassius carassius diverged, such that individuals became deeper bodied pond sections with pike. A laboratory confirmed this predator induced change body carp. Estimation prey vulnerability to predation by pike, gape-limited predator, revealed increase depth resulted reaching size provided refuge from predation. However, incurs cost through an drag when are swimming. Because limited resources piscivores and substantial defensive morph their presence, phenotypic plasticity should be optimal strategy for species.