Abstract
This chapter discusses two cases where, in cell and insect societies, there is a small reversal, and randomness is brought back to the fore to play a key role in their respective developments. During the course of evolution, the division of labor has arisen a number of times and it is determined in different ways. First there is the conventional method associated with organisms that develop from a single cell, such as an egg that undergoes repeated cleavages with the increase in size. Then, there are those cases where the division of labor arises in separate units, be they cells, as in cellular slime molds, or whole organisms, as in insect societies. What will be novel here is that in these latter cases there can be specially engineered periods of nongenetic or phenotypic variation that play a key role in determining the division of labor. It is a return to randomness—where randomness is put to good use.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
