Phenotypic heterogeneity as a strategy for speeding up adaptive evolution at minimal cost

Bacillus subtilis shows phenotypic variability in the stationary growth phase. In particular, a well-defined fraction of isogenic cells differentiates into the state of competence for transformation. Various regulators controlling this fraction have been identified. Here we address the question whether this type of behaviour is optimal to speed up adaptation while minimizing the cost of competence development.