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Updated: May 29, 2026

Following the Dynamics of Structural Variants in Experimentally Evolved Populations
Published on: February 3, 2023
Rapid independent trait evolution despite a strong pleiotropic genetic correlation.
Jeffrey K Conner1, Keith Karoly, Christy Stewart
1Kellogg Biological Station and Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060, USA. connerj@msu.edu
Genetic correlations can constrain evolution, but rapid adaptation is still possible. Studies on wild radish show that despite strong genetic links between flower traits, artificial selection drove significant evolutionary change.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Quantitative Genetics
Background:
- Genetic correlations are frequently studied as potential constraints on adaptive evolution.
- Pleiotropy can cause high genetic correlations between traits, theoretically limiting evolutionary change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively test evolutionary constraints imposed by genetic correlations.
- To compare empirical results with theoretical predictions regarding genetic constraints.
Main Methods:
- Estimating the additive genetic correlation between filament and corolla tube length in wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum).
- Applying artificial selection to drive evolutionary changes in these traits in opposite directions.
- Comparing evolutionary response rates to theoretical expectations.
Main Results:
- A high genetic correlation (0.85 ± 0.06) was found between filament and corolla tube length, attributed to pleiotropy.
- Artificial selection rapidly evolved these traits in opposite directions, increasing the difference by six standard deviations in nine generations.
- The observed evolutionary rate was slower than predicted without genetic correlation, indicating constraint, but still rapid and within theoretical expectations.
Conclusions:
- Evolutionary change can be substantial and rapid even when traits are strongly genetically correlated.
- Genetic correlations impose constraints but do not necessarily prevent significant adaptive evolution.
- Findings align with theory, demonstrating that evolution can proceed quickly despite genetic architecture limitations.
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