20/27 December 2001

Phenotypic plasticity: Maternal concern

Transgenerational induction of phenotypic plasticity is a hot topic, and an interesting example is reported in Daphnia — the tiny translucent water flea. Daphnia appears in almost any temporary lake or pond in temperate climes, mainly because of the resting eggs that are everywhere. Resting eggs are produced by bisexual reproduction, in contrast to the normal eggs produced parthenogenetically, in response to cues such as day length and food supply. Alekseev and Lampert now show that female Daphnia transmit information about day length and food to their offspring, influencing the production of resting eggs in the next generation.

Maternal control of resting-egg production in Daphnia
VICTOR ALEKSEEV & WINFRIED LAMPERT
Nature 414, 899–901 (20/27 December 2001)
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