Answer to Question #116235 in Evolution for NIBEDITA RUDRA

Question

"Sexual selection is a special case of natural
selection". Discuss the statement.

Answer 1

The fundamental forces behind evolutionary change through natural selection are differences in survival and reproduction among individuals. In many species of animals and some plants differences in reproductive success can be caused by the choice of a mate or by competition among individuals for the opportunity to mate. This phenomenon of differences in reproductive success of individuals is a special case of natural selection identified by Darwin called sexual selection. Any traits that help an individual secure more mates will be passed on to its offspring, who as a result may themselves experience greater reproductive success. The most common form of sexual selection is competition among members of the same sex, usually males, for access to and the opportunity to mate with members of the opposite sex. This form of sexual selection is known as intrasexual selection. In contrast, intersexual selection consists of members of one sex attempting to impress members of the other sex. It involves females making choices about males. Concept of sexual selection explains why males and females of many species differ so much.