Abundant Genetic Variation plus Strong Selection = Multivariate Genetic Constraints: A Geometric View of Adaptation

Walsh, B. and Blows, M.W. (2009) Abundant Genetic Variation plus Strong Selection = Multivariate Genetic Constraints: A Geometric View of Adaptation. Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics, 40 : 41-59.


Author Walsh, B.
Blows, M.W.
Title Abundant Genetic Variation plus Strong Selection = Multivariate Genetic Constraints: A Geometric View of Adaptation
Journal name Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics  (ERA 2012 Listed)    (ERA 2010 Rank A*)   Check publisher's open access policy
Publication date 2009-12
Sub-type Article
DOI 10.1146/annurev.ecolsys.110308.120232
Volume number 40
ISBN 978-0-8243-1440-8
ISSN 1543-592X
Start page 41
End page 59
Total pages 19
Editor Douglas Futuyma
Samuel Gubins
Place of publication USA
Publisher Annual Reviews
Collection year 2010
Language eng
Subject C1
0603 Evolutionary Biology
0604 Genetics
970106 Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences
Abstract Evolutionary biology has struggled to explain the coexistence of two basic observations: Genetic variation is found in almost all traits in the presence of strong natural and sexual selection in natural populations. These two observations are in direct conflict as such selection should deplete genetic variation. Furthermore, the presence of genetic variation in a trait, and selection acting on that trait, is often not sufficient for the trait to respond to selection. Here, we bring together geometric perspectives on mutation, selection, and genetic variation and show how the perceived incompatibility between these two observations is a consequence of taking a trait-by-trait approach to the multivariate problem of genetic variation and selection. We conclude that the simultaneous presence of widespead genetic variation in, and strong selection on, individual traits indicates that substantial multivariate genetic constraints are likely to be present in natural populations.
Keyword genetic variance
natural selection
G matrix
genetic constraints
adaptation
Q-Index Code C1
Q-Index Status Confirmed Code

Document type: Journal Article
Sub-type: Article
Collections: 2010 Higher Education Research Data Collection
School of Biological Sciences Publications
 
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Created: Sun, 20 Dec 2009, 00:05:30 EST