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Metapopulation structure modulates sexual antagonism
E Rodriguez-Exposito1,2, F Garcia-Gonzalez1,3
1Doñana Biological Station (EBD-CSIC) Isla de la Cartuja Sevilla Spain.
Evolution Letters
|August 9, 2021
Summary
Metapopulation structure impacts sexual conflict evolution. In seed beetles, spatial structure reversed typical patterns, reducing female resistance to male harm in polygamous populations.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Ecology
- Behavioral ecology
Background:
- Sexual conflict arises from differing reproductive interests between sexes.
- Metapopulation structure, defined by interconnected subpopulations, is common in nature.
- The interplay between mating systems and metapopulation dynamics on sexual conflict remains poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how mating systems (monogamy vs. polygamy) and metapopulation structure influence sexual conflict evolution.
- To assess the independent and combined effects of these factors on sexually antagonistic coevolution.
- To determine if metapopulation structure modifies established sexual conflict dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Experimental evolution using the seed beetle (Callosobruchus maculatus) as a model system.
- Manipulating selection histories related to mating systems (monogamy/polygamy).
- Implementing population subdivision and migration (metapopulation structure).
Main Results:
- Females from polygamous populations showed greater resistance to male harm, aligning with sexual conflict theory.
- Metapopulation structure significantly altered sexual conflict dynamics, reversing the expected pattern.
- Females in structured, polygamous populations exhibited reduced resistance to male harm compared to unstructured ones.
Conclusions:
- Population spatial structure, specifically metapopulation dynamics, plays a crucial role in moderating sexual selection and conflict.
- The evolution of sexual conflict is context-dependent and influenced by ecological factors like population structure.
- Findings have implications for understanding population dynamics, conservation, and biological control strategies.
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