Wright's shifting balance theory: an experimental study

摘要: Experimental confirmation of Wright's shifting balance theory evolution, one the most comprehensive theories adaptive is presented. The regarded by many as a cornerstone modern evolutionary thought, but there has been little direct empirical evidence supporting it. Some its underlying assumptions are viewed contradictory, and existence efficacy theory's fundamental process, interdemic selection, focus controversy. Interdemic selection was imposed on large arrays laboratory populations flour beetle Tribolium castaneum in manner described Wright: differential dispersion individuals from demes high fitness into low fitness. A significant increase average observed experimental when compared to control with equivalent random migration rates. response not proportional differential: largest occurred every two generations rather than generation or three generations. results indicate that phase can suggest gene interactions involved response.