Stochasticity in invertebrate clutch-size models (Q1094357)

Stochastic variability is introduced into simple invertebrate clutch-size models that describe optimal clutch sizes in cases where females oviposit in discrete patches and their progeny interact. Initially, models that optimize clutch size in a single patch are analyzed in circumstances where there is variance in patch quality or imprecision by the female determining clutch size. Second, models that incorporate a trade-off between clutch size and lifetime fitness are examined when the parameters of this trade-off are stochastic variables. General results are given using unspecified fitness functions, and then specific results using fitness functions in the literature are examined. These analyses demonstrate that incorporating stochasticity into clutch- size models can substantially change the optimal clutch size. It is thus necessary to consider both environmental stochasticity and variability in individual behavior when trying to understand clutch sizes in natural systems.