DPB Encounters Eco-Evo-Devo

Abstract Eco-Evo-Devo (EED) continues the EES incorporation of developmental processes into the understanding of speciation and evolution. EED constrains the role of genes in development and opens the investigation of developmental plasticity in morphology and behavior as the source of adaptation and speciation. Alterations in four developmental processes (heterochrony, heterotopy, heterometry, heterotypy) readily contribute to the manifestation of both micro- and macro-evolution. Heterochrony refers to the changes in when and for how long some developmental process occurs. Heterotopy refers to changes in where a developmental process is manifested compared to its usual place relative to other developmental processes. Heterometry refers to increases or decreases in the amount or intensity of a developmental process. Heterotypy refers to a change in what developmental process is occurring at that time and location. Researchers can use the construct of “developmental plasticity” along with these four sources of developmental repatterning to reveal the sources of both species-typical and individually specific developmental abilities.