Lifetime reproductive success is maximized with optimal major histocompatibility complex diversity.

ABSTRACT: Individual diversity at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is predicted to be optimal at intermediate rather than at maximal levels. We showed previously in sticklebacks that an intermediate MHC diversity is predominant in natural populations and provides maximal resistance in experimental multiple parasite infections in the laboratory. However, what counts ultimately is the lifetime reproductive success (LRS). Here, we measured LRS of six laboratory-bred sib-groups-to minimize the influence of non-MHC genes-three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) during their entire breeding period, each in a seminatural enclosure in the lake of their parents, where they were exposed to the natural spectrum of parasites. We collected developing clutches at regular intervals and determin

SUBMITTER: Kalbe M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2664370 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature