From noise to adaption: The adaptive significance of intra-genotypic variability in natural systems

Variation is an essential aspect of biology.

One particular form of variation, ‘intra-genotypic variability’ (IGV), has received little attention despite the ubiquity of genetically identical individuals, reared in homogenous environments, exhibiting phenotypic diversity.

Even fewer have attempted to relate such variability to ecologically relevant conditions, thereby testing the evolutionary consequences of IGV.

In order to illuminate this enigmatic form of variation, I propose a series of complementary experiments that test (1) the prevalence, (2) the genetic basis and (3) the adaptive value of IGV.

I will first characterise multiple aspects of the phenotype of the common zooplankter Daphnia collected from natural populations, including life history and behavioural traits. I will then follow a quantitative genetic design to quantify the genetic basis of variance control.

Finally, I will utilise an experimental evolution approach in conjuction with an established ecosystem restoration experiment to test how divergent selection modifies IGV.

This research will not only address outstanding questions in evolutionary biology, but it will substantially increase my scientific network and furnish me with a variety of new skills including quantitative genetics, hierarchical modelling and resurrection ecology, positioning me at the forefront of the field to begin my future career as an independent researcher.