Fig. 4: Modelling of the decline of the XY genotype resulting from the frequency-dependent selection.
From: High elevation increases the risk of Y chromosome loss in Alpine skink populations with sex reversal
Relative frequency of the XY genotype from the entire population declines precipitously with decreasing incubation temperature and requires only a small drop in environmental temperature to precipitate complete loss of the Y chromosome. Nest temperature of the highest altitude wild population sampled in this study is shown in green (Mt Ginini) (Telemeco et al. 2010) and resides on the precipice. One higher elevation population not sampled in this study (Mt Gingera, 1865 m a.s.l) (Telemeco et al. 2010) (red broken line) suggests conditions exist in alpine populations that are suitable for complete loss of the Y chromosome. Black broken line shows the actual recorded frequency of sex reversal in the adult population at the Mt Ginini.
