The thermal ecology of some Colias butterfly larvae

The thermal ecology of Colias butterfly larvae has been studied, using simple modifications of previous thermistor implantation technology. Like their adults, these larvae rely on a repertoire of thermoregulatory behavior to control body temperature in relation to external heat sources and sinks. They neither heat nor cool by metabolic means. They display narrow, well-marked body temperature ranges for their major activity, feeding. These are 10–15 °C lower than the maximum activity temperatures of the adults. Also in contrast to the adults, the locations of the larval activity maxima differ by several degrees C between the taxa studied. In each taxon studied the rate of feeding reaches a maximum in a body temperature range corresponding roughly to the temperature range maximizing the occurrence of feeding. The overall larval growth rate is maximized under constant temperature regimes corresponding to the maximum feeding range. A qualitative model for larval activity in the field in relation to daily temperature changes is constructed and apparently supported in its essentials. These results are discussed in relation to other aspects of larval ecology, notably predator pressure, and some speculation on their meaning for larval metabolic organization is raised.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/47110/1/359_2004_Article_BF00694570.pd

The sipunculids of the eastern coast of North America

Volume: 44Start Page: 373End Page: 43

Molecular evidence for hybridization in Colias

Gene flow and hybridization among species dramatically affect our understanding of the species as a biological unit, species relationships, and species adaptations. In North American Colias eurytheme and Colias eriphyle, there has been historical debate over the extent of hybridization occurring and the identity of phenotypically intermediate individuals as genetic hybrids. This study assesses the population structure of these two species to measure the extent of hybridization and the genetic identity of phenotypic intermediates as hybrids. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) marker analysis was performed on 378 specimens collected from northern California and Nevada. Population structure was inferred using a Bayesian/Markov chain Monte Carlo method, which probabilistically assigns individuals to genetic clusters. Three genetic clusters provided the best fit for the data. C. eurytheme individuals were primarily assigned to two closely related clusters, and C. eriphyle individuals were mostly assigned to a third, more distantly related cluster. There appeared to be significant hybridization between the two species. Individuals of intermediate phenotype (putative hybrids) were found to be genetically indistinguishable from C. eriphyle, indicating that previous work based on the assumption that these intermediate forms are hybrids may warrant reconsideration

Experiences of children and adolescents living with achondroplasia and their caregivers.

BACKGROUND: Achondroplasia, caused by a pathogenic variant in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 gene (FGFR3), leads to significant multisystem complications across the lifespan that may affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of individuals and families living with the condition. METHODS: The objective of this qualitative study was to describe the HRQoL of children and adolescents with achondroplasia and their caregivers. Thirty-four caregivers and 12 adolescents from the United States and Spain participated in one of eight focus groups or completed an individual interview, which was audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was performed to identify commonly occurring themes pertaining to HRQoL. RESULTS: Caregivers and adolescents described challenges with physical functioning and medical complications due to achondroplasia. Key challenges included difficulties performing activities of daily living, issues of accessibility, bullying, or unwanted attention in public, and negative effects on self-esteem. Caregivers were concerned about accessing appropriate medical care for their child, and also reported experiencing financial, relational, and emotional challenges in their families. Achondroplasia also affected individuals and their families in positive ways, including increasing empathy, receiving positive attention, and feeling supported by the achondroplasia community. CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the importance of regular assessments of HRQoL and the provision of psychosocial support to affected children and families