Fluctuating asymmetry--indicator of what?
In a population the optimal phenotype is promoted by buffering mechanisms that keep inter- and intra-individual variation low. A link exists between canalization, that controls phenotypic variation, and developmental stability, mostly measured as fluctuating asymmetry of bilateral traits (FA). Both types of variation are associated with the functional importance of a trait, and both are increased by stress of various kinds. But there are also several instances of non-congruence. The concept of developmental stability has been found elusive, and low FA is not the unambiguous measure of well being and good genes that has been claimed. It can be concluded that developmental stability is partly governed by specific, as yet unknown, molecular processes.
Rasmuson
Marianne
M
Department of Genetics, Umeå University, SE-901 87, Sweden.
D000818:Animals; D005828:Genetics, Population; D006801:Humans; D010641:Phenotype