Colony‐level sex ratio selection in the eusocial Hymenoptera

摘要: We present an inclusive fitness model on worker-controlled sex investments in eusocial Hymenoptera which expands the existing theory for random mating populations as formulated by Trivers and Hare (1976) Benford (1978). assume that relatedness asymmetry is variable among colonies — owing to multiple mating, worker reproduction polygyny workers are able assess their own colony. A simple marginal value argument shows “assessing” maximize specializing production of they relatively more related than average population sex. The confirms our earlier verbal this matter (Boomsma Grafen, 1990) gives further quantitative predictions optimal ratio relatedness-asymmetry classes both infinite finite, populations. It shown large all but one should specialize only. remaining, balancing class selected compensate any bias induced other class(es) such reflects class. In absence worker-reproduction, compensation balancing-class generally close 100%, unless very small. In Discussion we address explicitly likelihood relatedness-assessment hypothesis assumptions made model. relationship with previous allocation worked out Appendix.