Feedback selection and the evolution of modifiers

The problem of modifier evolution was examined with regard to the idea that modifier evolution can be considered as a result of selection for adaptation speed in populations far from equilibrium. This kind of selection was called feedback selection in order to emphasize the difference to theories which consider modifier evolution near the equilibrium. The basic principles of this kind of selection are derived for asexual populations and the problem of dominance is discussed in the light of this concept. In general the results support the view, that the genetic properties of a character are selected along with the character itself.This work was supported by the Austrian Fonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Proj. Nr. 3502).