The “female choice” theory of sexual selection says that mate choice should be b
ID: 165201 • Letter: T
Question
The “female choice” theory of sexual selection says that mate choice should be based on “honest indicators” of male fitness. What has to be true for sexual selection based on honest indicators to operate?
Female choice versus run-away selection theories of sexual selection make very different predictions about
(a) the link between a male display trait and male fitness, and (b) how selection should act on female attention to a male display trait. Explain the differences between these theories, and the predictions each makes about whether sexual selection favors females that pay attention to, or disregard, male dimorphic traits used in mating rituals.
Explanation / Answer
when female choose their mates, the mate choice is based on honest indiactors. honest indicators are some signals which are produced by males as a display feature such as bright feathers, long tails(peacock). males who can afford these ornaments invests lots of energy and put themselves in risks(being captured by predators, high energy loss). males who display these qualities are usually choosen by females.
female choice is an evolutionary process in which female choose their mates depending upon the physical appearence of their mate(on phenotypic trait). this theory was given by Charles Darwin.
Runaway selection theory is an evolution process in which exaggeration of ornaments occurs which results in sexual dimorphism. this theory was given by Ronald Fisher.
female mates with the male with attractive appearence or quality which charges males with great cost. hence, a fit male can only display that ornamental trait. in female choice, male is competitive with other males, while females are choosey for mates. in runwaway selection, a male who display exaggerated traits is the one who is more fit. this trait gets passed on to next generation, male offspring will be more showey whereas, female offspring will mate only with males showing that trait, this results in sexual dimorphism.
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