Growth, competition and cooperation in spatial population genetics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a spatial population genetics model with continuous space and fluctuating densities, analyzing how competition, cooperation, and fluid transport influence genetic diversity and fixation dynamics.

Contribution

It presents a novel individual-based model incorporating demographic stochasticity and fluid flows, extending classic spatial genetics models to more realistic ecological scenarios.

Findings

Fixation probabilities and times are affected by demographic fluctuations.

Cooperation increases heterozygosity and genetic diversity.

Fluid flows can significantly influence spatial genetic patterns.

Abstract

We study an individual based model describing competition in space between two different alleles. Although the model is similar in spirit to classic models of spatial population genetics such as the stepping stone model, here however space is continuous and the total density of competing individuals fluctuates due to demographic stochasticity. By means of analytics and numerical simulations, we study the behavior of fixation probabilities, fixation times, and heterozygosity, in a neutral setting and in cases where the two species can compete or cooperate. By concluding with examples in which individuals are transported by fluid flows, we argue that this model is a natural choice to describe competition in marine environments.