Fig. 4: Required genetic load for population elimination by a suppression drive.
Genetic load is defined as the proportional reduction in the number of effective gametes due to the suppression drive (equation (3)). The required genetic load (λ*) is a function of the total germination probability (γ) and the effective gamete count (n) of the sex being limited by the drive (equation (4)). For male-targeting drives, n represents the mean number of effective pollen grains per male (nbp), where an effective pollen grain is one capable of reaching a receptive female and germinating. For female-targeting drives, n corresponds to the mean number of effective ovules per female (nbo), where an effective ovule is one that can be fertilized and develop into a seed.
