Sexual Selection in Insects

Authors

  • Geetanjali Mishra Ladybird Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, Uttar Pradesh

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55446/IJE.2022.916

Keywords:

Intrasexual Selection, Intersexual Selection, Sperm Competition, Cryptic Female Choice, Direct And Indirect Fitness, Sperm Precedence

Abstract

Sexual selection is an evolutionary process, that increases the direct and indirect fitness of an organism by non random preference of mates, based on their differential ability. Sexual selection may be in the form of intrasexual selection and intersexual selection. The former involves competition between the males (usually), while females are passive acceptors of winners as mates. The latter involves display of abilities by the males (usually), while the female inspects and assesses them prior to selection of mate. Traditionally both these mechanisms are believed to take place prior to copulation. However, studies indicate that these also take place, post copulation. The post copulatory displays of sexual selection involve sperm competition and cryptic female choice. Not only are all these displays fascinating, understanding their evolution and their ecological modulations make this field an interesting one. This review deals with these aspects of sexual selection in insects, as they encase some of the most diverse mechanisms of sexual selection.

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Published

2023-01-06

How to Cite

Mishra, G. . (2023). Sexual Selection in Insects. Indian Journal of Entomology, 84(Special Issue (December), 77–85. https://doi.org/10.55446/IJE.2022.916

Issue

Section

Invited Review Articles

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