ISSN:
1570-7458
Keywords:
Overwintering
;
Cold and freezing resistance
;
Developmental duration
;
Cold adaptation and evolution
;
Drosophila melanogaster
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract In temperate regions low temperatures seem to be the most restrictive factor for survival of Drosophila natural populations, which depends on the capacity of one or more developmental stages to resist unfavourable winter conditions. In this study we have attempted to answer the question of how D. melanogaster overwinters under natural temperature conditions. Only adults overwintered and no diapause was observed in any developmental stage. Thus, developmental duration becomes a decisive component with respect to overwintering potential and, therefore, the preadult stages are unlikely to overwinter. Possible evolutionary steps in adaptation to cold regions are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00187965
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