Eur. J. Entomol. 90 (1): 11-21, 1993
Theory for quantitative inheritance of behavior in a protelean parasitoid, Muscidifurax raptorellus (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)
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Two races of Muscidifurax raptorellus Kogan & Legner (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) reveal combinations of extranuclear and chromosomal inheritance for the quantitative trait, gregarious oviposition. In the first extranuclear phase prior to chromosomal inheritance, unknown substances transferred at mating cause a portion (<= 1/2) of the intensity of a particular quantitative trait present in the males' genome to be expressed phenotypically in the inseminated females within an hour of mating. The ability to change the adult female's expression of the quantitative character, either positively or negatively, challenges accepted views of polygenic loci, and it is suggested that such loci may not be inherited, but rather another group of genes which have the capability to switch on or off the loci. Such genes may influence DNA methylation of the loci controlling oviposition behavior. All polygenic loci may be perpetually present for a given quantitative trait in all individuals of both races, but they are either activated or inactivated by substances under the control of another group of genes. An enhanced significance for haploid males is indicated through an ability to activate expressions of part of their own genetic make-up within their own generation, which may quicken natural selection and the pace of evolution.
Keywords: Quantitative inheritance, Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae, Muscidifurax raptorellus, polygenes, oviposition behavior
Accepted: September 28, 1992; Published: March 25, 1993 Show citation
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