Expanding population edges: theories, traits, and trade‐offs. (6th January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chuang, Angela; Peterson, Christopher R.
• Is Part Of: Global change biology. Volume 22:Number 2(2016:Feb.)
• Page Start: 494
• Page End: 512
• Publication Date: 2016-01-06
• Subjects: allele surfing -- climate change -- colonization -- dispersal -- invasive species -- range expansion -- range margin -- range shift -- spatial sorting; Climatic changes -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Troposphere -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Biodiversity conservation -- Periodicals; Eutrophication -- Periodicals; 551.5
• DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13107
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1354-1013

Abstract

Abstract: Recent patterns of global change have highlighted the importance of understanding the dynamics and mechanisms of species range shifts and expansions. Unique demographic features, spatial processes, and selective pressures can result in the accumulation and evolution of distinctive phenotypic traits at the leading edges of expansions. We review the characteristics of expanding range margins and highlight possible mechanisms for the appearance of phenotypic differences between individuals at the leading edge and core of the range. The development of life history traits that increase dispersal or reproductive ability is predicted by theory and supported with extensive empirical evidence. Many examples of rapid phenotypic change are associated with trade‐offs that may influence the persistence of the trait once expansion ends. Accounting for the effects of edge phenotypes and related trade‐offs could be critical for predicting the spread of invasive species and population responses to climate change.