Understanding Population Genetics

An inspiring introduction to a vital scientific field. The reader is taken through ten mathematical derivations that lead to important results, explaining in a hands-on manner the key concepts and methods of theoretical population genetics. The derivations are carefully worked out and easy to follow. Particular attention is given to the underlying assumptions and the mathematics used. The results are discussed and broadened out with relevant current implications. All topics feature questions with helpful answers. The book is intended for the reader who already knows some population genetics but requires a more comprehensive understanding. It is particularly suited to those who analyse genetic data and wish to better grasp what their results actually mean. It will also be helpful for those who wish to understand how population genetics contributes to the explanation of evolution. Or as the writers claim: If one wants to understand life – in all its improbable and amazing richness – one must start by understanding population genetics.

Introduction: On the constancy of allele frequencies 1 Derivation 1 Balance between forward and backward mutation 7 Derivation 2 Heterozygote advantage 23 Derivation 3 Breakdown of linkage disequilibrium 45 Derivation 4 Time to coalescence 63 Derivation 5 The evolution of genetic diversity 85 Derivation 6 Fixation of mutations with and without selection 105 Derivation 7 Nonhomogeneous populations 131 Derivation 8 Cost and benefit of sib-interactions 151 Derivation 9 Selection on a quantitative trait 167 Derivation 10 Evolutionary genetic analysis of the sex ratio 187 What’s next? 205 Epilogue 215 Thanks 217 Glossary 219 Answers 233 References 257 Index 263