Document Type
Article
Language
eng
Publication Date
3-2020
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Source Publication
Journal of Neurogenetics
Source ISSN
0167-7063
Abstract
Behavior genetics, and specifically the study of learning and memory, has benefitted immensely from the development of powerful forward- and reverse-genetic methods for investigating the relationships between genes and behavior. Application of these methods in controlled laboratory settings has led to insights into gene–behavior relationships. In this perspective article, we argue that the field is now poised to make significant inroads into understanding the adaptive value of heritable variation in behavior in natural populations. Studies of natural variation with several species, in particular, are now in a position to complement laboratory studies of mechanisms, and sometimes this work can lead to counterintuitive insights into the mechanism of gene action on behavior. We make this case using a recent example from work with the honey bee, Apis mellifera.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Brian H. and Cook, Chelsea N., "Experimental Psychology Meets Behavioral Ecology: What Laboratory Studies of Learning Polymorphisms Mean for Learning Under Natural Conditions, And Vice Versa" (2020). Biological Sciences Faculty Research and Publications. 836.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/bio_fac/836
Comments
Accepted version. Journal of Neurogenetics, Vol. 34, No. 1 (March 2020): 178-183. DOI. © 2020 Taylor & Francis. Used with permission.
Chelsea Cook was affiliated with Arizona State University at the time of publication.