A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Maternal effects on offspring Igs and egg size in relation to natural and experimentally improved food supply
Authors: Karell P, Kontiainen P, Pietiainen H, Siitari H, Brommer JE
Publisher: WILEY-BLACKWELL
Publication year: 2008
Journal:Functional Ecology
Journal name in sourceFUNCTIONAL ECOLOGY
Journal acronym: FUNCT ECOL
Volume: 22
Issue: 4
First page : 682
Last page: 690
Number of pages: 9
ISSN: 0269-8463
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2435.2008.01425.x
Abstract
6. We conclude that maternal body condition and maternal Igs, as well as hatchling Igs and egg size are limited by food resources during egg production. Hatchlings rely on maternally derived Igs and, hence, our results suggest that mothers with high levels of Igs passively transfer higher Igs levels to their eggs instead of active manipulation of Igs levels in eggs. Ural owl egg size appears to be highly sensitive to short-term changes in food abundance, with important consequences for nestling growth.
6. We conclude that maternal body condition and maternal Igs, as well as hatchling Igs and egg size are limited by food resources during egg production. Hatchlings rely on maternally derived Igs and, hence, our results suggest that mothers with high levels of Igs passively transfer higher Igs levels to their eggs instead of active manipulation of Igs levels in eggs. Ural owl egg size appears to be highly sensitive to short-term changes in food abundance, with important consequences for nestling growth.
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