Sexual Selection:
A form of selection where organisms choose their mates based on the other organisms behavioral characteristics or, their phenotype (physical characteristics). In the picture to the left, the bird of paradise reveals its feathers to attract mates while doing a special mating dance. The mating dance is an example of selection based on behavioral characteristics while the unique feathers are an example of phenotype based selection. |
Types of Sexual Selection
Sexual dimorphismSexual Dimorphism is differences in size, color, ornamentation and behavior between two different sexes of the same species.
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Intersexual selection (Intersexual Selection is when the member of one sex (usually the female) is very specific and picky in choosing her mate. The mate choice, as it is sometimes called, is based upon the showiness of the opposite sex. (Ex. the color of the female peacock spider above attracts mates)
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Intrasexual selectionIntrasexual Selection is when individuals of one sex compete directly for mates of the opposite sex. This process generally occurs in males of the same species in the same environment.
The Elk above competes for mates using their antlers.
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