The effect of phenotypic heterogeneity on behaviours linked to invasive success

• DOI: 10.1111/eth.13356
• Publication Date: 2023-01-03T05:34:36Z
• Authors: Aaron Jessop; Amy Deacon; Miguel Barbosa
• Keywords: Poecilia; Trait; Phenotypic trait

Abstract While most introduced species fail to become invasive, those that succeed are a major threat global biodiversity. To improve the management of invasive species, predictive understanding invasion risk is needed. There strong evidence success linked specific traits and it well recognised phenotypic trait heterogeneity population viability. However, effects population‐level traits, contribution success, remain poorly addressed in biology. Here, we address this gap by quantifying founding reproductive (a proxy for success). Namely, use Trinidadian guppy ( Poecilia reticulata ) test prediction populations composed phenotypically heterogeneous males produce larger broods more viable offspring than reduced male heterogeneity. We found greater produced broods. Furthermore, whilst sexual behaviour was an important predictor brood size all groups heterogeneity, not observed populations. Taken together, our results provide support key role plays process.