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Testing the genetics underlying the co-evolution of mate choice and ornament in the wild

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Listed:
  • Anna Qvarnström

    (Uppsala University)

  • Jon E. Brommer

    (University of Helsinki)

  • Lars Gustafsson

    (Uppsala University)

Abstract

Check mates A study of the behaviour of thousands of ringed birds over a 24-year period has contributed solid data that bear on two enduring problems in evolutionary biology: why animals spend so much effort selecting a mate and the information conveyed by exaggerated sexual ornaments. The results show that male collared flycatchers keep their side of the bargain: the male ornament (forehead patch size) is highly heritable and females can use it to predict the attractiveness of their offspring. Female mate choice, however, shows very low heritability — perhaps because in the wild so many ecological factors can influence mate choice regardless of genetic predispostion.

Suggested Citation

  • Anna Qvarnström & Jon E. Brommer & Lars Gustafsson, 2006. "Testing the genetics underlying the co-evolution of mate choice and ornament in the wild," Nature, Nature, vol. 441(7089), pages 84-86, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:441:y:2006:i:7089:d:10.1038_nature04564
    DOI: 10.1038/nature04564
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