What life cycle graphs can tell about the evolution of life histories

Rueffler, C., Metz, J.A.J., & Van Dooren, T.J.M. (2013). What life cycle graphs can tell about the evolution of life histories. Journal of Mathematical Biology 66 (1) 225-279. 10.1007/s00285-012-0509-x.

Full text not available from this repository.

Abstract

We analyze long-term evolutionary dynamics in a large class of life history models. The model family is characterized by discrete-time population dynamics and a finite number of individual states such that the life cycle can be described in terms of a population projection matrix. We allow an arbitrary number of demographic parameters to be subject to density-dependent population regulation and two or more demographic parameters to be subject to evolutionary change. Our aim is to identify structural features of life cycles and modes of population regulation that correspond to specific evolutionary dynamics. Our derivations are based on a fitness proxy that is an algebraically simple function of loops within the life cycle. This allows us to phrase the results in terms of properties of such loops which are readily interpreted biologically. The following results could be obtained. First, we give sufficient conditions for the existence of optimisation principles in models with an arbitrary number of evolving traits. These models are then classified with respect to their appropriate optimisation principle. Second, under the assumption of just two evolving traits we identify structural features of the life cycle that determine whether equilibria of the monomorphic adaptive dynamics (evolutionarily singular points) correspond to fitness minima or maxima. Third, for one class of frequency-dependent models, where optimisation is not possible, we present sufficient conditions that allow classifying singular points in terms of the curvature of the trade-off curve. Throughout the article we illustrate the utility of our framework with a variety of examples.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Adaptive dynamics; Density dependence; Evolutionary optimisation; Frequency dependence; Life history theory; Matrix model
Research Programs:	Evolution and Ecology (EEP)
Bibliographic Reference:	Journal of Mathematical Biology; 66(1-2):225-279 (January 2013) (Published online 5 February 2012)
Depositing User:	IIASA Import
Date Deposited:	15 Jan 2016 08:49
Last Modified:	27 Aug 2021 17:23
URI:	https://pure.iiasa.ac.at/10537

Actions (login required)

View Item