The adaptive function of sexual reproduction: resampling the genotype pool

Abstract

32We use a lottery analogy to show how sexual reproduction is advantageous in 33 populations that contain abundant genetic variation. Since it has been shown that most 34 eukaryotic species are genetically polymorphic, our model can explain the ubiquity of sex 35 among such species. The model also indicates that classic population genetics theory is 36 applicable to ecological studies of natural selection acting on standing genetic variation. 37 38 39