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Data and Supplemental Material from: A multifunction trade-off has contrasting effects on the evolution of form and function

Cite this dataset

Corn, Katherine; Martinez, Christopher; Burress, Edward; Wainwright, Peter (2020). Data and Supplemental Material from: A multifunction trade-off has contrasting effects on the evolution of form and function [Dataset]. Dryad. https://doi.org/10.25338/B8703S

Abstract

Trade-offs caused by the use of an anatomical apparatus for more than one function are thought to be an important constraint on evolution. However, whether multifunctionality suppresses diversification of biomechanical systems is challenged by recent literature showing that traits more closely tied to trade-offs evolve more rapidly. We contrast the evolutionary dynamics of feeding mechanics and morphology between fishes that exclusively capture prey with suction and multifunctional species that augment this mechanism with biting behaviors to remove attached benthic prey. Diversification of feeding kinematic traits was, on average, over 13.5 times faster in suction feeders, consistent with constraint on biters due to mechanical trade-offs between biting and suction performance. Surprisingly, we found that the evolution of morphology contrasts directly with these differences in kinematic evolution, with significantly faster rates of evolution of head shape in biters. This system provides clear support for an often postulated, but rarely confirmed prediction that multifunctionality stifles functional diversification, while also illustrating the sometimes weak relationship between form and function.

Usage notes

We recommend removing shapes associated with Dactylopus dactylopus.

Funding

National Science Foundation, Award: IOS-0444554

National Science Foundation, Award: IOS-0924489

National Science Foundation, Award: DEB-1061981