In our latest post, author Carolina Reyes-Puig asks us if it’s all about size (in this case, it is…kinda!). In their latest paper: “Is it all about size? Dismantling the integrated phenotype to understand species coexistence and niche segregation”, Carolina explores how different phenotypic traits contribute to niche segregation in Mediterranean green lizards. Carolina also highlights the importance of ecophysiology research, and staying true to yourself and your goals despite the challenges thrown at you!
About the paper
In ecology, niche segregation refers to the act of species co-existing in a habitat through different ways of interacting with the environment and its resources. Our paper examines the observable traits (phenotype) of green lizards from a multidimensional perspective to understand niche segregation. It includes measurements and several variables, such as morphological traits, performance, maneuverability, preferred temperature gradients, and water loss rates. The study used two coexisting species of Mediterranean green lizards—Lacerta schreiberi (Iberian emerald lizard) and Timon lepidus (ocellated lizard)—as a model system.
Our paper primarily explored the contribution of body size to niche segregation and whether niche segregation persists once the effect of body size is controlled for. Through this research, our aim was to determine whether phenotypic traits beyond body size significantly contributed to niche segregation. We also wanted to explore whether niche segregation is better understood in multidimensional spaces compared to univariate ones.
Water loss experiments in two green lizards (credit: Carolina Reyes-Puig).
About the research
Data collection involved a fieldwork component where we captured adult males of the two green lizard species mentioned above, in northern Portugal (Castro São Paio) in 2022. Once captured, we transported these individuals to the Ecophysiology laboratory at CIBIO-BIOPOLIS, where we conducted the series of experiments. Our experiments included linear morphological measurements, racetrack tests to assess maximum speed, maneuverability (turning angles), and bite force (maximum strength). We also examined preferred temperatures (mean temperature and variance) and water loss (evaporative water loss and surface area that is wet). The experiments followed specific protocols, which we outlined in more detail in our paper.
What we found was body size is the dominant trait driving niche segregation in our study system. However, traits to external morphology (e.g., limb length), preferred temperature variation, and hydric balance also contributed to niche segregation once body size effects are accounted for. Our findings have broader implications by providing a comprehensive understanding of how niche segregation and phenotypic variation are linked in coexisting species. Although body size emerges as a key factor driving niche segregation, accounting for various phenotypic traits in relation to body size, helps us identify which traits are most crucial for maintaining this segregation!
About the author
I (Carolina) am currently a professor at the Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA) and curator of the amphibians and reptiles’ collection at the Zoology Museum of the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) in Ecuador. I am a PhD candidate in the Doctoral Program in Biodiversity, Genetics, and Evolution at the University of Porto, Portugal. Since my beginnings in Biology, I have been interested in Ecology! My doctoral studies have allowed me to immerse myself in various research lines in ecology, such as ecophysiology where I am deeply committed to applying the knowledge, I have gained over the years to highly threatened and diverse ecosystems, particularly in Ecuador.
I can’t say that I’ve faced significant barriers in my scientific career. However, funding can often be a limiting factor, particularly when it comes to travel and research. Additionally, there are times when being young can lead to being underestimated, particularly by more established researchers who may not fully recognize the abilities and knowledge of younger scientists. Regardless of these hurdles, there remains an urgent need for research in ecophysiology focusing on species vulnerable to climate change, and I aim to enhance these studies on amphibians and reptiles in my country. Outside of research, I really enjoy going for walks in nature with my family; I believe that the time spent with loved ones is one of life’s greatest treasures! Overall, if I could give my younger self one important piece of advice, it would be to avoid rushing into decisions. I would encourage myself to think carefully about every choice. Additionally, I would emphasize the importance of planning activities realistically and staying focused on achieving my goals without regrets.
Like the blog post? Read the research here.
