Selection at sex-linked loci. I. A method of estimating total fitnesses

Abstract

A method of estimating fitness values from population data for sex-linked loci is presented. It possesses several particular characteristics devised to avoid the apparition of spurious frequency-dependent fitnesses due to the existence of incompletely-selected stages or to the utilization of a too simple population model. Overall fitnesses are estimated in each generation by using zygotic frequencies so that the absence of post-observational selection is warranted. Moreover, the method is based on a general population model that takes into account different selection in sexes and any pattern of mating. Some of the current problems for measuring selection are discussed in connection with the method presented here.