Simulation of local evolutionary dynamics of small populations

A simple stochastic model assuming continuous traits, normally distributed modifications, selection for fertility and multiplicative fitness was used to simulate phenotypic evolution by "reproducing individuals" in a given fitness landscape. Of particular interest was how small populations cross saddles separating distinct adaptive peaks. The simulated evolution exhibits a strong dualism: at the same level of reproductive errors, sexual reproduction provides significantly better local adaptation and asexual reproduction provides significantly better adaptive dynamics.