Question

Contrast intrasexual selection and intersexual selection.

Short answer

Answer: The key differences between intrasexual and intersexual selection include: 1. Intrasexual selection involves competition within the same sex (usually males), while intersexual selection involves mate choice between the sexes (usually females choosing males). 2. The traits that evolve due to intrasexual selection are often related to physical strength, size, and direct combat ability, while intersexual selection leads to the evolution of traits that are attractive to the opposite sex, which can include visual, auditory, or olfactory cues. 3. Intrasexual selection often results in more aggressive behaviors and physical features in males, while intersexual selection can lead to the evolution of elaborate displays, colors, or even intricate mating rituals.

Step-by-step solution

Define Intrasexual Selection

Intrasexual selection is a form of sexual selection where individuals of the same sex (usually males) compete directly with each other for access to mates. The competition can take the form of physical fights, displays or other behaviors that help them outcompete their rivals. The winners of these contests are more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation, leading to the evolution of traits that increase their chances of success in these competitions.

Define Intersexual Selection

Intersexual selection, on the other hand, is a form of sexual selection that involves the preferences of one sex (usually females) for certain traits or characteristics in their potential mates. Rather than direct competition between members of the same sex, species with intersexual selection involve members of one sex choosing mates based on specific traits or features that they find attractive. The individuals with the preferred traits are more likely to reproduce, influencing the gene pool over time and leading to the evolution of these attractive traits in the population.

Key Differences between Intrasexual and Intersexual Selection

The main differences between intrasexual and intersexual selection are in the nature of the competition and the driving forces behind the evolution of certain traits. 1. Intrasexual selection involves competition within the same sex (usually males), while intersexual selection involves mate choice between the sexes (usually females choosing males). 2. The traits that evolve due to intrasexual selection are often related to physical strength, size, and direct combat ability, while intersexual selection leads to the evolution of traits that are attractive to the opposite sex, which can include visual, auditory, or olfactory cues. 3. Intrasexual selection often results in more aggressive behaviors and physical features in males, while intersexual selection can lead to the evolution of elaborate displays, colors, or even intricate mating rituals.

Examples of Intrasexual and Intersexual Selection

Examples of intrasexual selection can be found in various animal species, such as: - Male deer that grow large antlers and engage in fierce fights with rivals to establish dominance and breeding rights. - Male elephant seals that engage in physical battles to establish territories and mate with the females in those areas. Examples of intersexual selection can be seen in species like: - Peafowls, in which the female (peahen) chooses a mate based on the size and quality of the male's colorful plumage. - Birds of paradise, where females select their mates based on elaborate courtship displays and dances performed by males.