Frequency-dependent selection can lead to evolution of high mutation rates

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Population genetics

Background:

• High mutation rates can be advantageous in novel or fluctuating environments.
• Frequency-dependent competition can influence trait dynamics and selective pressures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how frequency-dependent competition can drive the evolution of higher mutation rates.
• To model the selective pressures that favor increased mutation rates in cyclical competition dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a mathematical model to simulate cyclical trait dynamics.
• Analyzed the evolutionary stable mutation rate under different conditions, including recombination.
• Examined the trade-off between generating novelty and reproducing existing success.

Main Results:

• Cyclical trait dynamics from "rock-paper-scissors" competition can lead to a high evolutionarily stable mutation rate.
• Recombination reduces the evolutionarily stable mutation rate but allows for coexistence of different mutation rates.
• Adaptive evolution favors positive mutation rates when the competitive advantage outweighs the cost of recombination.

Conclusions:

• Mutation rates may be elevated in genes involved in cyclical competition.
• Asexual populations experiencing strong cyclical competition might exhibit higher global mutation rates.
• The study provides theoretical support for the adaptive evolution of mutation rates under specific ecological conditions.