Are Natural Clones Specialists or Generalists? Using a Model System to Test Alternative Hypotheses for the Advantages of Parthenogenesis

Grant number: DP0450050

Abstract

Parthenogenetic organisms are all-female and reproduce clonally. Through discovering why these unusual organisms are sometimes successful we can better understand the significance of genetic diversity and sex. The Australian arid zone is a ?hot-spot? for parthenogenesis, with at least five independent examples including a native grasshopper and one of its host plants. I will apply modern molecular tools and ecophysiological techniques to test the hypothesis that parthenogenesis is favoured in this grasshopper because it allows the fixation of locally adapted clones. This research will provide a unique insight into the selective forces operating in the arid zone, Australia's largest ecosystem..

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Related publications (3)

Parthenogenesis without costs in a grasshopper with hybrid origins

MR Kearney, ME Jasper, VL White, IJ Aitkenhead, MJ Blacket, JD Kong, SL Chown, AA Hoffmann

2022-06-03

The rarity of parthenogenetic species is typically attributed to the reduced genetic variability that accompanies the absence of s..

The matchstick grasshopper genus Warramaba (Morabidae: Morabinae): A description of four new species and a photographic guide to the group

MR Kearney

2018-09-18

Matchstick grasshoppers are a unique and diverse element of Australia's insect fauna with great potential as a model system for ec..

Summer egg diapause in a matchstick grasshopper synchronizes the life cycle and buffers thermal extremes

MR Kearney, J Deutscher, JD Kong, AA Hoffmann

2018-07-01

The phenological response is among the most important traits affecting a species’ sensitivity to climate. In insects, strongly sea..

University of Melbourne Researchers

Michael Kearney