Phenotype Plasticity

What is phenotypic plasticity?

The ability to change your phenotype quickly. It is central for humans ability to adapt and is why, without changing ourselves too much genetically as a species, we have colonised the world

What are humans?

Very plastic

What does phenotypic plasticity allow you to do?

Adapt during your lifetime

What does an individual’s genome produce different phenotypes in response to?

Exposure to varying environmental cues

Where can plasticity be mediated at?

Behavioural, biochemical, physiological, or developmental levels, each differing in the degree of reversibility

What does phenotypic plasticity enhance?

The ability to survive and reproduce in different conditions

What is an example of phenotypic plasticity on a physical level?

Animals can alter the length of their digestive tract or the type of enzymes they produce to digest the food they are consuming better

What is an example of phenotypic plasticity on a behavioural level?

Snakes and other ectothermic animals can adjust their behaviour (eg. Basking in the sun) to regulate their body temperature

What is an example of phenotypic plasticity on a developmental level?

The timing of metamorphosis in amphibians (eg. From tadpole to frog) can be influenced by factors like food availability or temperature