Does a simple Cope's Rule mechanism Overlook predators?
Penteriani, Vincenzo; Kenward, Robert. 2007 Does a simple Cope's Rule mechanism Overlook predators? Research Letters in Ecology, 2007, 92684. 2, pp. https://doi.org/10.1155/2007/92684
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Abstract/Summary
The Cope’s rule predicts a tendency for species to evolve towards an increase in size. Recently, it has been suggested that such a tendency is due to the fact that large body sizes provide a general increase in individual fitness. Here we highlight evidence that predator species do not always fit the large-size = high-fitness mechanism for Cope’s rule. Given the specific requirements of predators and the complexity of prey-predator relationships, any analysis that does not take into account all animal groups may overlook a significant portion of evolutive trends. Generalisations may not be possible regardless of taxa.
Item Type: | Publication - Article |
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Digital Object Identifier (DOI): | https://doi.org/10.1155/2007/92684 |
Programmes: | CEH Programmes pre-2009 publications > Biodiversity |
UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas: | Hails |
Additional Information. Not used in RCUK Gateway to Research.: | Open Access journal |
NORA Subject Terms: | Biology and Microbiology |
Date made live: | 26 Mar 2008 15:34 +0 (UTC) |
URI: | https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/2465 |
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