| Optimal digestion theory does not predict the effect of pathogens on intestinal plasticity. | |
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MedLine Citation:
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PMID: 23445950 Owner: NLM Status: In-Data-Review |
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
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One prediction of optimal digestion theory is that organisms will increase the relative length of their digestive tracts when food resources become limited. We used theory of optimal digestion to test whether tadpoles can adjust the relative length of their intestines when challenged with the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). The degree of tadpole mouthpart damage, a symptom of Bd infections that reduces food consumption, was associated positively with the length of tadpole intestines relative to their body size, consistent with optimal digestion theory. After controlling for mouthpart damage, tadpoles exposed to Bd had shorter intestines relative to their body size, opposite to the predictions of optimal digestion theory. One explanation of why tadpoles with higher Bd loads have shorter relative intestinal lengths is that they divert energy from maintaining intestinal and overall growth towards anti-parasite defences. |
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Authors:
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Matthew D Venesky; Shane M Hanlon; Kyle Lynch; Matthew J Parris; Jason R Rohr |
Publication Detail:
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Type: Journal Article Date: 2013-02-27 |
Journal Detail:
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Title: Biology letters Volume: 9 ISSN: 1744-957X ISO Abbreviation: Biol. Lett. Publication Date: 2013 |
Date Detail:
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Created Date: 2013-02-28 Completed Date: - Revised Date: - |
Medline Journal Info:
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Nlm Unique ID: 101247722 Medline TA: Biol Lett Country: England |
Other Details:
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Languages: eng Pagination: 20130038 Citation Subset: IM |
Affiliation:
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Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, , Tampa, FL 33620, USA. |
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From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine
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