Is the geomagnetic map imprinted in pre-emergent egg?

Abstract

Although it is well-accepted that the geomagnetic field (GMF) plays an important role in animal navigation and migration, key problems remain unanswered. To explain the puzzling ability of hatchlings to embark on unexplored migrational journeys we hypothesize that mothers who have previously navigated the trip enable their offspring by direct transfer of route information to their eggs prior to hatching. The freshly hatched animal registers the local GMF as a reference point before embarking on the journey the mother has prepared for it. This process represents a novel type of biological cycle that finesses the need to treat questions such as natal homing and route parameters separately.

Keywords:

• Migration
• philopatry
• geomagnetic imprinting
• map and compass
• sea turtle
• lobster

Declaration of interest

The author reports no conflicts of interest. The author alone is responsible for the content and writing of this article.