When the egg wins? Application of game theory to the evolution of a complex trait.
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
4-2025
Abstract
Vivipary, live birth, is less common than oviparity, laying eggs, being present in approximately 20% of all vertebrates. It has evolved independently multiple times among squamates, which serves as a convenient model for the evolution of this complex trait. The most common explanation for the adaptive significance of this parity mode is summarized in the cold climate hypothesis (CCH) which posits that colder temperatures select for vivipary by allowing the mother to thermoregulate and increase the temperature of the developing embryo. Despite the widespread acceptance of the CCH there is evidence that multiple variables, including temperature, oxygen, and water availability all play important roles in the evolution of vivipary. We use these three variables and current distributions of extant squamates, to inform a theoretical game that predicts conditions where viviparity and oviparity are favored. The gradient of scenarios includes temperature, water, and oxygen ranked as high, low, or normal. This provides 18 different “strategies” for each of the parity “players.” This research is unique in that it informs our understanding of the evolution of this specific complex trait but also represents a novel application of game theory to an important evolutionary question.
Recommended Citation
Garcia, Victoria, "When the egg wins? Application of game theory to the evolution of a complex trait." (2025). Student Research Symposium 2025. 57.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/srs_2025/57
Comments
Poster Session 2
5:30-7:00 p.m.
BLH Lobby