which should be cited when talking about the moran process

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15-04-2025

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The Moran process, a fundamental model in population genetics, describes the evolution of a population with a fixed size under the influence of mutation, selection, and genetic drift. Attributing your work correctly is crucial. This article outlines key sources you should cite when discussing the Moran process, categorized for clarity.

Foundational Papers: The Must-Cites

These papers lay the groundwork for understanding the Moran process. They are essential for any comprehensive discussion:

• Moran, P. A. P. (1958). Random processes in genetics. Mathematical Proceedings of the Cambridge Philosophical Society, 54(1), 60–71. This is the seminal paper. It introduced the model that bears its name and established many of its core properties. This is the unquestionable primary source to cite when discussing the Moran process.

• Moran, P. A. P. (1962). The statistical processes of evolutionary theory. Oxford University Press. While not solely focused on the Moran process, this book provides a deeper theoretical context and further develops the concepts introduced in his 1958 paper. Citing this book adds substantial weight to your understanding and demonstrates a thorough grasp of the subject.

Expanding on the Basics: Important Extensions and Applications

While Moran's original papers are paramount, many authors have extended and applied the model. Depending on your specific focus, citing these papers is crucial:

• Papers on specific extensions: The Moran process has been extended to incorporate various factors, such as:

  • Spatial structure: Look for papers explicitly modeling spatial effects within the Moran process framework.
  • Frequency-dependent selection: Papers exploring how selection pressures change with the frequency of alleles should be cited.
  • Multiple alleles: Research on Moran processes with more than two alleles adds further complexity. Find papers focusing on this aspect.
  • Mutation models: Different mutation models (e.g., point mutations, gene conversion) have been integrated into the Moran process. Cite works specifically addressing these variations.

• Review articles: Comprehensive reviews of the Moran process and its applications can provide excellent contextual background and a broader perspective. These should be cited to demonstrate awareness of the wider field. Search for review articles in journals like Theoretical Population Biology or Journal of Mathematical Biology.

Contextualizing the Moran Process: Related Models and Concepts

To provide a more complete picture, consider citing works that discuss related models and concepts:

• Wright-Fisher model: This is another classic model in population genetics. Comparing and contrasting the Moran and Wright-Fisher models adds depth to your analysis. Cite papers that explicitly compare the two.
• Neutral theory: The Moran process can be used to illustrate neutral evolution. Citing works on neutral theory provides valuable context.
• Stochastic processes: The Moran process is a stochastic process. Citing introductory texts or papers on stochastic processes shows a broader understanding of the mathematical underpinnings.

How to Cite Effectively

When citing these works, use a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Be sure to accurately reflect the contribution of each source in your text. Avoid simply listing sources; integrate them seamlessly into your discussion to support your claims.

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly citing relevant literature is crucial when discussing the Moran process. While Moran's seminal papers are the cornerstone, a thorough understanding requires acknowledging the extensions, applications, and related models. By carefully selecting and citing these resources, you establish credibility and demonstrate a deep understanding of this vital model in population genetics. Remember to always prioritize accuracy and proper attribution in your academic writing.