The evolutionary consequences of unintended artificial selection on population viability

August 2025

Claus Wedekind

• Caroline Isaksson, Lund University, SE
• Lesley Lancaster, University of Aberdeen, UK
• Yngvild Vindenes, University of Oslo NO
• Robin Waples, University of Washington, US
• Loeske Kruuk, University of Edinburgh, UK
• Eric Taylor, University of British Columbia, CA

Wild populations are shaped by natural selection, sexual selection, and (mostly unintended) artificial selection. The latter include, for example, a decline of the mean breeding value for horn size in response to trophy hunting, or reduced individual growth rates in response to size-selective fishing. Previous research in this context has concentrated on the evolutionary responses in the specific traits that are under selection. The effects of unintended artificial selection on population fitness are still largely unclear. Artificially changed selection regimes can increase the genetic load of natural populations, either by directly selecting against individuals of high breeding value for fitness (e.g. if fast growth is an indicator of low genetic load), or by relaxing natural and sexual selection and hence reducing purifying selection (e.g. in supportive breeding programs). We will discuss such problems in the context of current environmental changes and the potential of rapid evolution.

Falferalp

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