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PAPER OF THE MONTH
 

Journal of Evolutionary Biology
Volume 19 Issue 6 Page 1973 - November 2006

MHC class I variation associates with parasite resistance and longevity in tropical pythons

T. MADSEN & B. UJVARI

Abstract

Using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) we identified 26 unique major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genotypes in 104 water pythons. We observed a significant independent association between reduced blood parasite load (Hepatozoon sp.) and python body length/age, presence of a specific RFLP fragment (C-fragment) and the overall number of fragments. The parasite has a negative impact on several python life-history traits such as growth, nutritional status and longevity. Thus, the C-fragment could be considered a 'good gene' (a fitness-enhancing genetic element). However, while the number of fragments affected parasite load, the association between level of parasitaemia and fragment number was not linear, and, hence, minimum parasite infection level was achieved at an intermediate number of fragments. Intermediate MHC fragment numbers were also observed among the largest/oldest pythons, suggesting that both a specific fragment and intermediate levels of MHC polymorphism enhanced python longevity. Thus, our results suggest python MHC is subject to both frequency-dependent and balancing selection.

Not the Paper in PDF 132k

     
     
JANET COSH HERBARIUM

 

Documenting local flora and aiding botanical research and teaching in the University.

Details...

 
 
UV EFFECTS ON MOSS IN ANTARCTICA

 

The work of A.Prof. Sharon Robinson and her students in Antarctica.

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FIRE ECOLOGY

 

Selected parts of the COAG Bushfire report are available for download in PDF format:

Summary (PDF 251k)
Appendix C (PDF 412k)
Appendix D (PDF 176k)

For further information contact Rob Whelan

Some Images of the recent fires in and around Wollongong. (Opens in new window)

     

 

 

 

 

 
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