The 2012 installment in The Year in Evolutionary Biology series comprises six compelling reviews exploring fundamental evolutionary elements, from single-gene dynamics to system-level progression. A common theme to these reviews is the focus on mechanisms that shape gene architecture, selection, and duplication in the service of evolution. Papers in this issue include a model of the interplay between competition and mutualism (i.e., beneficial interspecific interactions) in the expression of genes; an intriguing exploration of the genetic and physiological basis of the interaction of stress and inbreeding depression; a persuasive look at the application of information theory to better understand the evolution of information-processing capacity; a review of the evolution of the nearly ubiquitous Hox gene and diversity in the body plan and morphology of organisms; an overview of angiosperm genome duplication and its potential import for elucidating mechanisms of gene duplication; and, finally, a fascinating analysis of the interrelated roles of canalized changes and phenotypic plasticity in determining character displacement.

Table of contents.