Genic variation at sex-linked loci: quantification of regular selection models.

Abstract

The level and determinants of genic variation were studied under the following regular selection models: (A) overdominance with identical selection in the sexes, and (B) codominance and (C) dominance with opposite selection in the sexes. In each model, the portion of the fitness space leading to stable allele frequency equilibrium is smaller at sex-linked loci than at autosomal ones. With most fitness values, also the level of gene diversity at equilibrium is lower at sex-linked loci. The models can also be applied to haplodiploid populations. The bearing of the results on social evolution of the Hymenoptera is discussed.