Divergence and Diversification, Quantitative Genetics of

Abstract

A key question in evolutionary biology is understanding how the genetic properties of populations affect long-term patterns of adaptation, divergence, and diversification. Quantitative genetics provides a framework for understanding how genetic variation within populations allows phenotypic divergence via genetic drift and natural selection. This article examines whether or not the structure of genetic variation within populations provides meaningful insight into the evolutionary processes and patterns of divergence and diversification across evolutionary lineages.