Search, encounter rates, and the evolution of anisogamy.

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Abstract
Analytical and numerical models to study gamete encounters in 2 and 3 dimensions between differently sized gametes without assuming pre-existing mating types are described. An isogamous population can be successfully invaded by a gametangium if it produces gametes of a different size. The existence of a low adaptive peak for isogamy and a much higher adaptive peak for anisogamy suggests that stochastic forces may be initially important in driving isogamy through the fitness saddle to anisogamy.