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. 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
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	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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