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The Constructive Neutral Evolution of Behaviour.

Andrew M Catherall-Ostler1, Tanmay Dixit2,3

  • 1Homerton College University of Cambridge Cambridge UK.

Ecology and Evolution
|July 11, 2025
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Constructive neutral evolution (CNE) is a second driver of complexity, not just natural selection. This study argues CNE also increases behavioral complexity in organisms, proposing new research directions.

Keywords:
behaviourconstructive neutral evolutionmolecular evolutionmutationsnonadaptive evolutiontrait evolution

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Molecular evolution
  • Behavioral evolution

Background:

  • A recognized disagreement exists between molecular and behavioral evolution researchers.
  • Natural selection is traditionally viewed as the sole driver of increasing complexity.
  • Molecular biology increasingly recognizes constructive neutral evolution (CNE) as a second driver.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose that constructive neutral evolution (CNE) also drives increases in behavioral complexity.
  • To highlight the potential role of CNE in the evolution of behavior.
  • To suggest avenues for further research and testing of this hypothesis.

Main Methods:

  • Reviewing existing literature on molecular evolution and CNE.
  • Analyzing the characteristics of behavioral evolution (polygenic architecture, flexibility, mutation buffering).
  • Synthesizing evidence to support the hypothesis of CNE's role in behavioral complexity.

Main Results:

  • Constructive neutral evolution (CNE) involves the spread of mutations that increase system complexity without necessarily improving function.
  • Behavioral evolution, due to its inherent properties, is particularly susceptible to CNE.
  • The probabilistic nature of CNE acts as a 'ratchet,' promoting irreversible complexity increases.

Conclusions:

  • Constructive neutral evolution (CNE) is a significant factor in the evolution of behavioral complexity.
  • CNE should be considered alongside natural selection when explaining behavioral complexity.
  • Further empirical and theoretical research is needed to validate CNE's role in behavior.