Comment on "Additive genetic breeding values correlate with the load of partially deleterious mutations"

Science. 2011 Sep 2;333(6047):1221. doi: 10.1126/science.1200996.

Abstract

Tomkins et al. (Reports, 14 May 2010, p. 892) reported a strong negative correlation between breeding values and mutational load in cow-pea weevils. Here, I show that this result can be attributed to a statistical artifact. By testing the observed correlation against an incorrect null hypothesis, they find a negative correlation where one does not exist.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Breeding*
  • Coleoptera / genetics*
  • Coleoptera / physiology
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Female
  • Genes, Insect
  • Genetic Fitness
  • Genetic Variation
  • Inbreeding*
  • Male
  • Mutation*
  • Phenotype
  • Reproduction
  • Selection, Genetic
  • Statistics as Topic