evolutionary explanations

• What is sexual selection in evolutionary biology?

  It explains partner preference based on reproductive success.
• What does anisogamy refer to?

  Differences between male and female gametes.
• What are the characteristics of male gametes?

  Small, highly mobile, produced continuously.
• How long do males produce gametes?

  From puberty to old age.
• What are the characteristics of female gametes?

  Large, produced at intervals, energy-intensive.
• What is a consequence of anisogamy?

  Fertile females are rare compared to males.
• What is inter-sexual selection?

  Focuses on quality of mates over quantity.
• What does Trivers suggest about female investment?

  Females invest more time and resources in offspring.
• Why are both sexes choosy in mate selection?

  Both risk losing resources with poor partners.
• What is the female's optimum mating strategy?

  Select a genetically fit partner who provides resources.
• How do males compete for mating opportunities?

  By competing for access to fertile females.
• What is the 'runaway' process in sexual selection?

  Exaggeration of traits preferred by females over generations.
• What is the sexy sons hypothesis?

  Females pass on attractive traits to their sons.
• How does inter-sexual selection influence intra-sexual selection?

  Preferences affect male competition for resources.
• What is intra-sexual selection?

  Competition among one sex for access to the other.
• What is male-female dimorphism?

  Differences in form between sexes in a species.
• What is a male's optimum reproductive strategy?

  To mate with as many females as possible.
• What do males prefer in female partners?

  Young women with certain body shapes.
• What are the differences in reproductive behavior between sexes?

  • Females look for fit partners who provide resources.
  • Males look for younger women with small waists and large hips.