Reproductive success

Reproductive success is an individual's capacity to spread its genes. This is measured by the number of fertile descendants it has or, to be more precise, the number of descendants that will also reproduce.

Determining reproductive success

Reproductive success can be calculated in two ways in terms of a gene or genotype:

• iits probability of surviving and passing on to the next generation (absolute fitness, W);
• this same probability compared to that of other genotypes or other alleles in the case of a gene (relative fitness, ω).

This is a key notion in evolution since every individual unconsciously aims to spread its genetic legacy. Thus, the objective of all evolutionary strategies adopted over the life of an individual will be to increase its reproductive success.