AI Article Synopsis
- Heterozygosity at genes linked to parasite resistance may enhance the fitness of hosts, particularly in haplodiploid species.
- In these species, haploid males are predicted to be more susceptible to parasites than diploid females, influencing their evolutionary behavior.
- The study reviews evidence supporting the idea that male vulnerability to parasites drives behavioral adaptations to reduce exposure and pathogen transmission among colonies, challenging previous hypotheses focused solely on female worker dynamics.
Article Abstract
Heterozygosity at loci affecting resistance against parasites can benefit host fitness. We predict that, in haplodiploid species, haploid males will suffer decreased parasite resistance relative to diploid females. We suggest that elevated susceptibility in haploid males has shaped the evolution of social behaviour in haplodiploid species. Male susceptibility will select for behavioural adaptations that limit males' exposure to pathogens and that limit male transmission of pathogens within and between colonies. The relatedness-asymmetry hypothesis that has been advanced to explain female-only workers does not make these predictions. We review the relevant evidence for genetic effects on parasite resistance in insects and summarize empirical evidence that relates to the haploid-susceptibility hypothesis.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1691683 | PMC |
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2004.2685 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!