Biology, natural selection and the prediction of maximal wave-induced forces

Abstract

Appropriate interpretation of body form often requires knowledge regarding the maximal force that an organism is likely to encounter in its lifetime. In many situations, prediction of maximal forces is nearly impossible, but the statistical distribution of ocean waves allows prediction of the maximal lift and drag to which a benthic plant or animal is subjected. These predictions can, in turn, be used to provide quantitative estimates of the severity of natural selection on specific attributes of body form.