Effects of climate change on physiology and recombination rates in two species of Drosophila

Abstract

This dissertation investigates how environmental stressors, both individually and in combination, affect physiological, reproductive, and genetic traits in Drosophila species, shedding light on their resilience and adaptability to climate change. Chapter 1 examines species and sex specific thermal stress responses in Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila pseudoobscura, revealing differences in critical thermal maximum, respiratory quotient, and reproductive outcomes. Chapter 2 explores how combined hypoxia and low temperature impact reproductive success in D. melanogaster, highlighting the role of genetic background in modulating responses. Chapter 3 measures recombination rates under combined stress, showing how genetic variation influences stress-induced changes. Together, these studies demonstrate the complex interaction between stressors and genetic factors, emphasizing the need for integrative approaches to predict responses to climate change. This research contributes valuable insights into species' resilience and provides a framework for future studies on how environmental stressors shape evolutionary dynamics and biodiversity under climate change.