Effects of causal networks on the structure and stability of resource allocation trait correlations

► Cause-effect trait network models can help explain life-history trait correlations. ► Trait network models can incorporate effects of quantitative trait loci (QTLs). ► Trait networks partially buffer trait covariances against genetic perturbations. ► Cause-effect networks may thus contribute to genetic covariance matrix stability. ► Structural equation models can predict which network traits are affected by QTLs.