Transgenerational effect on sexual reproduction in rotifer populations in relation to the environmental predictability of their habitats

Abstract One way to cope with predictable environmental fluctuations that affect several generations of individuals is through nongenetic transgenerational effects. Ancestors match the phenotype their descendants environment latter are expected experience. In facultatively sexual rotifer life cycles, sex linked production diapausing eggs, which enables survival between growing seasons. some species, reproduction inhibited after eggs hatch. We hypothesised in ponds where season length predictable, clones reproduce asexually for more generations, allowing a fuller exploitation and maximising at end season. tested this prediction by estimating proportion females produced Brachionus plicatilis inhabiting eight vary predictability Rotifer from were unresponsive cues induce leaving diapause than unpredictable ponds. However, did respond these early probably as ensure against risk an unexpectedly Significant within‐population clonal variation was observed responses. Our results showed inhibition B. evolved habitats (i.e., period when populations active water column) on interannual scale. findings also suggest longer season, prolonged effect it affects greater number asexual generations). This research shows importance understanding how organisms adapt fluctuating environments strategies establishes groundwork future studies regulatory mechanisms underlying modulation rotifers.