The role of vital dietary biomolecules in eco-evo-devo dynamics

The physiological dependence of animals on dietary intake of vitamins, amino acids, and fatty acids is ubiquitous. Sharp differences in the availability of these vital dietary biomolecules among different resources mean that consumers must adopt a range of strategies to meet their physiological needs. We review the emerging work on omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, focusing predominantly on predator-prey interactions, to illustrate that trade-off between capacities to consume resources rich in vital biomolecules and internal synthesis capacity drives differences in phenotype and fitness of consumers. This can then feedback to impact ecosystem functioning. We outline how focus on vital dietary biomolecules in eco-eco-devo dynamics can improve our understanding of anthropogenic changes across multiple levels of biological organization.

Automated summary

The physiological dependence of animals on dietary intake of vitamins, amino acids, and fatty acids is crucial. The differences in availability of these biomolecules across resources drive variations in phenotype and fitness of consumers, with potential impacts on ecosystem functioning. Focusing on vital dietary biomolecules in eco-eco-devo dynamics can enhance our understanding of anthropogenic changes at different biological levels.