Phenotypic plasticity and species divergence: Linking trait architecture, fitness and macro-evolution

What is the role of phenotypic plasticity in species diversification? Plasticity may help to colonise new niches, but on the other hand it may weaken the strength of divergent selection. We address this question by studying visual plasticity in cichlid fish. We combine phylogenetic comparative analysis (species richness patterns) with experimental investigation of visual plasticity (retinal pigment expression) and its fitness consequences (growth and survival under competition).