Genetic Variation in Parental Effects Contributes to the Evolutionary Potential of Prey Responses to Predation Risk

Despite the ubiquity of parental effects and their potential effect on evolutionary dynamics, contribution to evolution predator-prey interactions remains poorly understood. Using quantitative genetics, here we demonstrate that substantially contribute larval antipredator responses in a leaf beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). Previous research showed larger L. decemlineata larvae elicit stronger responses, mothers perceiving predators improved offspring by increasing intraclutch cannibalism—an extreme form provisioning. We now report substantial additive genetic variation underlying maternal ability induce cannibalism, indicating this adaptive evolve natural selection. also show paternal size, heritable trait, affected predation risk but themselves had little variation. Together, these results how can via two types effects, both which provide indirect sources for traits.