Abstract

Objective: To test for an effect of isomorphy on development rate under different experimental thermal environments. Methods: In three different thermal environments, we studied the following characters as response variables during development: metabolic rate, body mass, and body length. We used as our study model the terrestrial isopod Armadillidium vulgare during the first 14 weeks of development. Conclusions: Our results suggest that although metabolic rate and body mass may depend on the internal state of individuals, body length may present an isomorphic response. This would be evidence that a non-adaptive interpretation could explain developmental patterns and thus highlight the importance of avoiding the frequent use of unsupported adaptive explanations in evolutionary ecology. © 2009 Francisco Bozinovic.