Data from: Multilevel selection with kin and non-kin groups, experimental results with Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

An experiment was conducted comparing multilevel selection in Japanese
quail for 43 days weight and survival with birds housed in either kin (K)
or random (R) groups. Multilevel selection significantly reduced mortality
(6.6% K vs. 8.5% R) and increased weight (1.30 g/MG K vs. 0.13 g/MG R)
resulting in response an order of magnitude greater with Kin than Random.
Thus multilevel selection was effective in reducing detrimental social
interactions, which contributed to improved weight gain. The observed
rates of response did not differ significantly from expected,
demonstrating that current theory is adequate to explain multilevel
selection response. Based on estimated genetic parameters, group selection
would always be superior to any other combination of multilevel selection.
Further, near optimal results could be attained using multilevel selection
if 20% of the weight was on the group component regardless of group
composition. Thus in nature the conditions for multilevel selection to be
effective in bringing about social change maybe common. In terms of a
sustainability of breeding programs, multilevel selection is easy to
implement and is expected to give near optimal responses with reduced
rates of inbreeding as compared to group selection, the only requirement
is that animals be housed in kin groups.