Mickelson, L.E. and Downie, J.R. (2010) Influence of incubation temperature on morphology and locomotion performance of Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) hatchlings. Canadian Journal of Zoology, 88(4), pp. 359-368. (doi: 10.1139/Z10-007)
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Abstract
The journey of Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea (Vandelli, 1761)) hatchlings from nest to the sea is a vulnerable life-history stage. Studies have shown that nest incubation temperatures influence hatchling morphology and locomotor performance, which may affect hatchling fitness. We obtained incubation temperature profiles from 16 Leatherback nests in Tobago, West Indies, during the 2008 nesting season (March-June). There was significant variation among mean nest incubation temperatures, which had a significant influence on hatchling morphology. Using principal components analysis, we determined the morphological traits that explained the most variation among hatchlings, which allowed investigation of the relationship between hatchling morphology and terrestrial locomotion speed. Hatchlings with a narrower carapace width and longer flipper reach (produced at lower incubation temperatures) had significantly faster terrestrial speed and total run time than those with opposite characteristics (produced at higher incubation temperatures). Our results demonstrate that lower incubation temperatures produce hatchlings with traits that are significantly advantageous to terrestrial locomotion. These findings suggest that nest incubation temperature is important in determining hatchling fitness, as nest incubation temperature significantly influences hatchling morphology and locomotor capabilities. This study supplements related findings in Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas (L., 1758)), but also illustrates some unique features in Leatherbacks.
Item Type: | Articles |
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Status: | Published |
Refereed: | Yes |
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Downie, Professor Roger |
Authors: | Mickelson, L.E., and Downie, J.R. |
Subjects: | Q Science > QL Zoology |
College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences |
Journal Name: | Canadian Journal of Zoology |
Publisher: | National Research Council Canada |
ISSN: | 0008-4301 |
ISSN (Online): | 1480-3283 |
Published Online: | 05 March 2010 |
Copyright Holders: | Copyright © 2010 National Research Council Canada |
First Published: | First published in Canadian Journal of Zoology 88(4):359-368 |
Publisher Policy: | Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher |
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