Question

In comparison to males, the females of many animal species: a. compete for mates. b. choose mates that are well camouflaged in their habitats. c choose to mate with many partners. d. are always monogamous. e. choose their mates carefully.

Short answer

The correct answer is E. In comparison to males, the females of many animal species choose their mates carefully.

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate Each Option

Each option in the question is evaluated separately to see if it applies to the behavior of females in many animal species when it comes to mating.

Option A

Option A suggests that females compete for mates. In many species, it’s primarily the males who compete for access to females, rather than the females competing for males. So, this option is likely incorrect.

Option B

Option B indicates that females choose mates that are well camouflaged in their habitats. While being well camouflaged can be an advantage in terms of survival, it's not typically a universal trait that females in many species specifically look for in a mate. So, this option is also likely incorrect.

Option C

Option C suggests females choose to mate with many partners. In some species, both males and females may have multiple partners, but this is not common to 'many' species. Therefore, this option is likely not the most correct answer.

Option D

Option D states that females are always monogamous. This is also not correct, as not all species are monogamous. Therefore, this option can also be ruled out.

Option E

Option E indicates that females choose their mates carefully. In many species, females do tend to be more selective about their mates, even among species where the males are the ones who typically compete for access to females. This is because female investment in offspring is generally much larger than male investment. So, compared to the other options, this is the most likely correct answer.

Key concepts

Sexual Selection

Sexual selection is a fascinating evolutionary force that operates through differences in mating success. This concept was first introduced by Charles Darwin and plays a critical role in the evolution of many animal species. Sexual selection occurs when certain traits increase an individual's chances of attracting a mate and successfully reproducing.
There are two main types of sexual selection:

• **Intrasexual Selection**: This occurs when individuals of the same sex compete for access to mates. Usually, males engage in fierce battles or displays to win over females.
• **Intersexual Selection**: Also known as "mate choice," this is when individuals of one sex (typically females) choose mates based on certain desirable traits, such as bright plumage or complex songs.

Traits favored by sexual selection can sometimes conflict with natural selection. For instance, while a peacock's extravagant tail may attract females, it may also attract predators. Thus, sexual selection can drive the evolution of traits that are not necessarily advantageous for survival but are beneficial for mating.

Mate Choice

Mate choice, or intersexual selection, refers to the preference of individuals for certain traits in their partners. It often plays a significant role in the reproductive success of species. Across the animal kingdom, females typically invest more in offspring production and care. Therefore, they tend to be more selective than males when choosing a mate.
Females may choose mates based on several factors:

• **Physical Traits**: Bright colors, large size, or impressive displays.
• **Behavioral Traits**: Complex mating calls or courtship rituals.
• **Indicators of Good Genes**: Signs of health, vigor, and superior genetic qualities.
• **Resource Availability**: Ability to provide food, shelter, or protection.

The preference for these traits is tied to the idea of passing on good genes to offspring or ensuring the survival and upbringing of future generations. Mate choice can be an intense, energy-consuming process but is crucial for evolutionary success.

Monogamy in Animals

Monogamy in animals is the practice of having one mate at a time, and it involves both social and genetic dimensions. In animal behavior, monogamy can be complex, involving factors like parental care, territory defense, and resource allocation.
There are various types of monogamous relationships:

• **Social Monogamy**: Animals form a pair bond but may mate with others outside that bond; common in bird species.
• **Genetic Monogamy**: A mating system where individuals mate exclusively with one partner.

The reasons for monogamy in animals vary:

• Raising offspring requires the involvement of both parents for increased survival rates.
• Economic defense of resources, where a male may guard a female to prevent her from mating with others.
• Ensuring paternity, where males stay with females to ensure their offspring is truly their genetic legacy.

While monogamy is rare in the animal kingdom, especially among mammals, when it does occur, it often offers a strategic advantage for species survival and reproduction.