[Effect of larval density on phenotypic and genetic variability of morphological traits in Drosophila melanogaster].

Effect of high larval density in Drosophila melanogaster cultures on the phenotypic and genetic variation of morphological traits (thorax length, wing length, and number of stempoleural bristles) and on the stability of development (estimated as the fluctuating asymmetry of bilateral traits) was studied. The fluctuating asymmetry of both bilateral traits was higher at high than at low larval density. An increase in phenotypic variation at a high as compared to low density was demonstrated. However, no increase in genetic variation at a high density was revealed.