Genetic compatibility scenarios are based on females deriving indirect genetic benefits from pairing with genetically compatible males [ 6, 9, 10, 15].
Genetic compatibility was examined in three transgenerational phases from the parental plant generation to those of the F1 and F2 generations; first at the initial encounter of the fungus and the grass, then in the success of the vertical transmission of the fungus to the vegetative propagules (tillers) and offspring of the host grass.
Genetic compatibility may be responsible; the best male varies between different female phenotypes and in its extreme form every female may have its own 'best' male [ 6].
The genetic compatibility of different duck species, combined with mixed effects of genetically determined and imprinted mate choice leads to speciation reversals [ 11] despite genotypically and morphologically defined species boundaries.
Transplanted organs are rejected if there isn't a genetic compatibility between donor and recipient.
Saikkonen, K., Wäli, P. & Helander, M. Genetic compatibility determines endophyte-grass combinations.
The science of smell, he notes, is serious, and he cites research into smell as a marker for genetic compatibility.
Dr Ihle and her colleagues tested the genetic compatibility hypothesis to identify whether females were choosing their mates based on their genetic quality.
(The prospective mother on the tentatively titled "Make Me a Mum" show would select the winner based on looks, intelligence and genetic compatibility).
"These results reject the hypothesis of mate choice for genetic compatibility and only support the hypothesis of mate choice for behavioural compatibility", said Dr Ihle.
"Would you mind taking a quick DNA test," I say, "to determine our genetic compatibility?" "Am I going to be told I have a fatal disease?" she asks.
