An eco-evolutionary feedback loop between population dynamics and fighter expression affects the evolution of...

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Ecology
• Population Genetics

Background:

• Eco-evolutionary feedback loops are crucial for understanding trait dynamics within populations.
• Alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs), such as male fighters and sneakers, offer a model system to study these dynamics due to contrasting demographic rates.
• Intraspecific killing by fighters raises questions about population structure and selection gradients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the eco-evolutionary feedback between fighter expression and population dynamics on the evolution and maintenance of ARTs.
• To model the impact of intraspecific killing on ART evolution using the bulb mite as a parameterization example.

Main Methods:

• Developed a two-sex, two-ART population model incorporating life-history differences and a mating-probability matrix.
• Utilized adaptive dynamics to analyze the evolutionary consequences of fighter-induced intraspecific killing.
• Parameterized the model using data from the bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus robini).

Main Results:

• Intraspecific killing by fighters can expand the range of life-history parameters supporting ART evolution by decreasing fighter fitness.
• The fitness cost of fighter-induced killing can be offset by benefits such as increased reproductive success.
• Eco-evolutionary feedback effects observed in dimorphic traits likely extend to other fitness-related traits.

Conclusions:

• Eco-evolutionary feedback loops significantly influence the evolution and maintenance of alternative reproductive tactics.
• Intraspecific killing is a key factor that can alter selection gradients and the evolutionary trajectory of such traits.
• Further research into eco-evolutionary processes is essential for understanding trait evolution under selection.