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Related Experiment Videos

Spatial mosaic formation through frequency-dependent selection in Müllerian mimicry complexes.

Thomas N Sherratt1

  • 1Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1S 5B6. sherratt@ccs.carleton.ca

Journal of Theoretical Biology
|November 8, 2005
PubMed
Summary

Müllerian mimicry can evolve into diverse spatial mosaics of phenotypes across large areas. This occurs through predator-driven selection and localized spread of new forms, creating stable patterns.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Ecological Modeling
  • Population Genetics

Background:

  • Existing models of Müllerian mimicry often focus on limited scenarios, such as two mimetic forms or simple patch systems.
  • The evolution and maintenance of multiple Müllerian mimic forms across extensive geographical regions remain underexplored.
  • Understanding the spatial dynamics of mimicry is crucial for comprehending biodiversity patterns in predator-prey interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present a novel spatially explicit, individual-based model for the evolution of Müllerian mimicry.
  • To investigate how multiple forms of Müllerian mimics evolve and are maintained over large geographical areas.
  • To identify the key mechanisms driving the generation and stability of phenotypic diversity in mimicry systems.

Main Methods:

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  • A spatially explicit, individual-based model was developed on a regular lattice of discrete cells.
  • Two unpalatable prey species were simulated with genetic drift, localized dispersal, and frequency-dependent selection by predators.
  • The model tracked the spread and interaction of different mimetic phenotypes and their hybrid zones.

Main Results:

  • Müllerian mimicry evolved into a spatial mosaic of phenotypes, characterized by narrow hybrid zones.
  • Phenotypic diversity was primarily generated by the establishment and spread of new mutant forms in unoccupied cells.
  • Mimetic mosaic stability increased with higher predation intensity and lower prey dispersal rates.

Conclusions:

  • A stable mosaic of different Müllerian mimic forms can emerge from various starting conditions.
  • The evolution is driven by a combination of chance events (mutant establishment) and localized frequency-dependent selection.
  • Predation intensity and dispersal rates are critical factors in shaping the spatial structure and stability of mimicry patterns.