Abstract
A generalized, single-locus model is developed to investigate the evolutionary behavior of an autosomal locus capable of modifying the primary sex ratio. The model analytically incorporates effects of any differential fecundity and viability associated with different primary sex ratios. Computer simulation based upon the model confirms, for the most part, MacArthur's prediction that evolution will produce a sex ratio that maximizes the product of the number of daughters in the population times the number of sons in the population. Some exceptions to MacArthur's principle-arising from certain kinds of dominance relations at the modifier locus-are noted. Analysis of the effects of differential viability shows that the stage in the life cycle to which MacArthur's principle applies is that stage at which male mortality and female mortality both cease to differ between families possessing different sex ratios. In particular, as previously shown by Shaw and Mohler, differences in viability that depend solely up...
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