Search, encounter rates, and the evolution of anisogamy

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1984 Oct;81(19):6078-9. doi: 10.1073/pnas.81.19.6078.

Abstract

We describe analytical and numerical models to study gamete encounters in two and three dimensions between differently sized gametes without assuming pre-existing mating types. Our results indicate that an isogamous population can be successfully invaded by a gametangium if it produces gametes of a different size. The existence of a low adaptive peak for isogamy and a much higher adaptive peak for anisogamy suggests that stochastic forces may be initially important in driving isogamy through the fitness saddle to anisogamy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Evolution*
  • Female
  • Male
  • Mathematics
  • Models, Biological*
  • Reproduction*