Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
sexual selection
This term describes a specific mechanism of evolution where mating preference drives the development of traits that may not necessarily aid in survival, but instead increase reproductive success. It is often contrasted with natural selection, which focuses on survival traits like camouflage or speed. The concept is central to evolutionary biology and is frequently used to explain the existence of extravagant ornaments, such as the plumage of birds or the antlers of deer.
In academic and scientific discourse, the term is used as a technical noun phrase. Because it refers to a biological process or a theoretical mechanism, it is treated as an uncountable concept. It does not typically take a plural form in standard scientific writing, as it describes a general phenomenon rather than individual instances of selection.
Meanings
Examples
The peacock's elaborate tail is a classic example of sexual selection.
Does sexual selection always lead to traits that hinder survival?
Sexual selection explains why males of some species are much more colorful than females.
I wonder if sexual selection played a role in the evolution of human attraction.
The professor discussed the difference between natural selection and sexual selection.
Intrasexual competition is a key component of sexual selection in many mammal species.
Look at those bright feathers; that is sexual selection in action.
The study examines how sexual selection drives the development of complex mating songs.