Hereditary symbionts and mitochondria: distribution in insect populations and quasi-linkage of genetic markers

Maternal transmission ensures the joint and simultaneous presence in populations of individuals with certain variants bacterial symbiont host mitochondrial DNA. Such “quasi-linkage” cytoplasmic genomes among insects other arthropods is widespread. The acts as a “driver” mitochondria obvious biological consequence spread “linked” haplotype population, which itself does not have increased selective value to organism. Examples such indirect sweep are discussed, well consequences this phenomenon mechanisms increasing frequency symbiont-infected population.