A general analysis of genetic models with frequency-dependent mating. II. Sexual selection for heterozygotes

Abstract

Heterozygotes are assumed to mate with a frequency that is any general function, f(v), of their population frequency, v. Models are analysed in which the selection that determines the function f(v) acts either on one sex alone or on both sexes equally. The central equilibrium point [formula omitted] always exists; it is stable if f(1/2) > 1/2. If the central equilibrium is unstable, other asymmetric equilibria may be stable; the fixation states may also be stable. This general analysis is applied to a number of specific models of sexual selection. The models give qualitatively different results. The outcome of selection in population cage experiments could be used to test the alternative models. © 1981 The Genetical Society of Great Britain.