Limb specialization reduces evolvability

摘要

This study uses viability selection simulations to predict the evolvability of primate species based on specialization of limb morphology. Following the author's predictions, more specialized limb morphologies were less responsive to selective pressures. This led to a slower transition toward new adaptive peaks. Specifically, evolvability of primate limbs was found to be associated with the degree of morphological integration, limb specialization, and body size.