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Genetic analysis of environmental variation.
1Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK. w.g.hill@ed.ac.uk
Genetics Research
|March 25, 2011
Summary
Genetic control influences environmental variation (VE) in traits. While heritability of VE is low (<10%), its genetic coefficient of variation is significant (>20%), impacting breeding programs.
Area of Science:
- Quantitative genetics
- Evolutionary biology
- Animal breeding
Background:
- Environmental variation (VE) in quantitative traits, the portion of phenotypic differences not due to genetics, can be under genetic control.
- VE can manifest within individuals (e.g., bilateral traits) or between individuals, with family-specific variations.
- Understanding genetic influences on VE is crucial for accurate heritability estimates and breeding strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence for genetic variation in environmental variation (VE).
- To explore models for phenotypic distributions incorporating VE heterogeneity.
- To assess the impact of selection on VE and its implications for breeding programs.
Main Methods:
- Review of empirical and theoretical studies on genetic variation in VE.
- Analysis of models for phenotypic distributions with heterogeneous VE.
- Examination of selection effects (stabilizing and directional) on VE.
Main Results:
- Heritability of VE is typically low (<10%).
- Genetic coefficient of variation for VE is substantial (typically ≥20%).
- Evidence supports genetic variation influencing VE across different components.
Conclusions:
- Genetic control of environmental variation is a recognized phenomenon with significant implications.
- Further research is needed to resolve outstanding issues in understanding and manipulating VE.
- Opportunities exist for reducing VE in breeding programs through genetic insights.
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