Overview
Sexual selection is a key mechanism of evolution that explains how certain traits evolve based on mate preferences. It operates through two main processes: mate choice and intrasexual competition. Mate choice involves individuals selecting partners based on specific traits, while intrasexual competi...
Key Terms
Example: Female birds often choose males with brighter feathers.
Example: Male deer fighting for territory to attract females.
Example: Male peacocks have colorful feathers, while females are more subdued.
Example: Peacock tails becoming larger over generations.
Example: Giraffes with longer necks can reach more food.
Example: A fit male may attract more females.
Related Topics
Natural Selection
The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce.
intermediateEvolutionary Psychology
The study of how evolutionary principles influence human behavior and thought.
advancedAnimal Behavior
The study of how animals interact with each other and their environment.
intermediateGenetics
The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.
intermediateKey Concepts
Mate choiceIntrasexual competitionSexual dimorphismRunaway selection