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Published on: August 22, 2013
Genetic variation in male-induced harm in Drosophila melanogaster
David C S Filice1, Tristan A F Long2
1Department of Biology, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3C5 fili2950@mylaurier.ca.
Abstract:
In Drosophila melanogaster, prolonged exposure to males reduces the longevity and fecundity of females. This harm arises from the effects of male courtship behaviours and the toxic side effects of the accessory gland proteins (Acps) in their seminal fluids. Here, we examine the relationship between male exposure and its harmful effect on the lifetime fitness of his mates, and quantify the genetic basis for this variation. We found significant additive genetic variation in the magnitude of harm that males impose on females by exposing females to males from a variety of hemiclonal backgrounds for either a brief or prolonged period of time and measuring their fecundity, a meaningful fitness index. Furthermore, we discovered a strong negative correlation between the magnitude of harm and the short-term effects of male exposure on female fitness. We discuss the evolutionary significance of these results with regards to potential life-history trade-offs in females, and its relationship to male body size.
Insights
Prolonged male exposure harms female fruit flies, reducing their lifespan and egg production. Genetic factors influence this harm, with greater harm linked to less immediate negative effects on female fitness.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Genetics
- Reproductive biology
Background:
- Prolonged exposure to male fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) negatively impacts female longevity and fecundity.
- Harm results from male courtship behaviors and toxic accessory gland proteins (Acps) in seminal fluid.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between male exposure and lifetime fitness harm in female fruit flies.
- To quantify the genetic basis for variation in this harm.
Main Methods:
- Females were exposed to males from diverse hemiclonal backgrounds for brief or prolonged periods.
- Female fecundity, a key fitness indicator, was measured to assess the effects of male exposure.
Main Results:
- Significant additive genetic variation was found in the magnitude of harm males impose on females.
- A strong negative correlation exists between the degree of harm and the short-term effects of male exposure on female fitness.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variation influences the harm males inflict on female fruit flies.
- Life-history trade-offs in females may explain the observed negative correlation, potentially linked to male body size.
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