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Energetic efficiency under stress underlies positive genetic correlations between longevity and other fitness traits in natural populations

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Abstract

Evolutionary relationships among fitness traits are considered in terms of the near-to-universal scenario of stressful environments leading to a resource-deficient and hence energy-deficient world. Fitness approximates to energetic (and metabolic) efficiency under this environmental model. When fitness is high, stress resistance (reducible to oxidative-stress resistance) and metabolic stability are maximal, and energy expenditure is minimal. Rapid development should then be favored followed by a long lifespan and high adult survival. Positive associations among diverse fitness or life-history traits are expected, controlled by stress-resistant ‘good genotypes’. Heterozygotes tend to show higher energetic efficiency and hence higher fitness than do corresponding homozygotes under extreme environments, and to give parallel associations among life-history traits. Energy budgets under abiotic environments are pivotal for integrative evolutionary studies of life histories in natural populations.

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Acknowledgement

The referees have improved the paper substantially for which I am most grateful.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic 3083, Australia

    Peter A. Parsons

  2. PO Box 906, Unley, SA 5061, Australia

    Peter A. Parsons

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  1. Peter A. Parsons
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Correspondence to Peter A. Parsons.

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Parsons, P.A. Energetic efficiency under stress underlies positive genetic correlations between longevity and other fitness traits in natural populations. Biogerontology 8, 55–61 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10522-006-9028-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10522-006-9028-8

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