Sticklebacks in Loberg Lake

Biologists have classified sticklebacks based on the number of lateral plates on their bodies into three lateral plate morphs (LPM): complete-plated, partial-plated, and low-plated. Complete-plated sticklebacks have 29 to 36 plates, low-plated sticklebacks have fewer than 10 plates, and partial-plated sticklebacks have a number of plates between the complete and low-plated types (Figure 18). 

Research has shown that sticklebacks living in environments with many predator fish tend to have more plates, while those in areas with fewer predatory fish but more predatory insects, like dragonfly larvae, usually have fewer plates. Scientists believe that a complete set of plates and stiff spines help sticklebacks escape predatory fish when they are swallowed. On the other hand, low-plated bodies and smaller girdles may help sticklebacks grow quickly, allowing them to outgrow and escape predation by insects, such as dragonfly larvae that snatch prey with an extendable lower jaw [1-4].