The evolutionary value of timing and timing precision in insect phenology (C06)

• Subject Area: Animal Physiology and Biochemistry
• Term: from 2013 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 208233609

We design models reflecting general principles and systems investigated empirically in the CRC. In WP1 we analyze (i) rules underlying emergence timing in the two sexes, (ii) drivers of variance in emergence timing, and (iii) coexistence of timing strategies. WP2 focuses on models predicting the timing of life history transitions in (social) insects, accounting for (i) perennial but seasonal colony cycles, (ii) developmental time lags, and (iii) proximate correlates (triggers) of such transitions. In WP3 we implement models of Drosophila neuronal networks that (i) are flexible to account for environmental conditions, (ii) are robust against e.g. temperature change, and (iii) allow utilization of clocks as multi-purpose control agents.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1047: Insect Timing: Mechanisms, Plasticity and Interactions
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Project Heads: Privatdozent Dr. Thomas Hovestadt; Professor Dr. Hans-Joachim Poethke, until 12/2016