[Genetic dynamics of population systems represented by small subpopulations: analytical modeling and numeric results].
Genetic dynamics of population systems consisting of a finite number of small (Ne < 10(2)) semiisolated subpopulations was studied. A method of quantitative estimation of statistical parameters was developed for different types of population systems and different directions or intensities of selection. The following regularities were established: (1) optimal numbers of subpopulations, their effective size and rates of gene migration promoting continuous maintenance of genetic diversity can be chosen; (2) the genetic process in a population system is stationary only in the case of a specific structure of gene migrations corresponding to Wright's island model; (3) cyclic dynamics can stabilize the population system at high levels of gene diversity in a heterogeneous environment if gene migration and subpopulation size change in time. Similarities and differences between the concept of population system and the concept of metapopulation, which have been simultaneously proposed in Russia and abroad, are discussed in the final section.
Altukhov
Iu P
IuP
Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
Blank
M L
ML
D005828:Genetics, Population; D008957:Models, Genetic; D011157:Population Dynamics