Interdependence Reworking Ontogeny through Tendrel Fishbones and Dirty Chickens

This chapter is based on fieldwork with scientists studying the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) in Bhutan and Guatemala, who are advancing relational, interdependent models of development. Departing from growth models that focus on nutrient inputs and the mother’s body, these scientists employ ‘fishbone’ modelling (Bhutan) and the ‘dirty chicken hypothesis’ (Guatemala) to chart growth in relation to ecological surroundings. Turning the conversation of child development towards the effects of lead toxicity and chronic inflammation caused by microbial and other contaminants, their work offers an alternative to individualising, mother-focused origin stories of malnutrition. The chapter considers how visions of interdependent ontogeny (biological development) help reimagine the sites of health, disease, and global development.