Abstract

MARTINEZ B., MAXIMILIANO. Developmental Constraints and the Evodevo Integration: Precitions and Distinctions About this Theme. Acta biol.Colomb. [online]. 2009, vol.14, suppl.1, pp.151-168. ISSN 0120-548X.

Developmental constraints are located on the interface between evolution and development, which make them a crucial focus of research in EvoDevo. Unfortunately, the concept of constraint and its factual references have been surrounded by confusion and controversy, which have limited the advancement of their study. In this paper, after reviewing some traditional literature on the subject, I identify some specific sources of confusion. I propose to recover the classical taxonomical division of constraints that divide them into universal and local, which brings clarity to the understanding of their nature. I highlight the need of avoiding some recurrent orthodox approaches on the topic, as well as defending their importance as developmental factors that have evolutionary implications.

Keywords : developmental constraints; evolutionary developmental biology; local constraints; universal constraints.

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