A2 Review article, Literature review, Systematic review
Sex-specific assumptions and their importance in models of sexual selection (2023)

de Vries, C., & Lehtonen, J. (2023). Sex-specific assumptions and their importance in models of sexual selection. Trends in Ecology and Evolution, 38(10), 927-935. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2023.04.013

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: de Vries, Charlotte; Lehtonen, Jussi

Journal or series: Trends in Ecology and Evolution

ISSN: 0169-5347

eISSN: 1872-8383

Publication year: 2023

Publication date: 26/05/2023

Volume: 38

Issue number: 10

Pages range: 927-935

Publisher: Elsevier

Publication country: Netherlands

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2023.04.013

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/89149

Abstract

Sexual selection is a field coloured by tension and contrasting views. One contested claim is the causal link from the definition of the sexes (anisogamy) to divergent selection on the sexes. Does theory truly engage with this claim? We survey the extent to which theory makes sex-specific assumptions and engages with anisogamy, and discuss these issues in a broader context. The majority of theory in sexual selection makes sex-specific assumptions and does not engage with the definition of the sexes. While this does not invalidate existing results, debates and criticisms regarding sexual selection force us to think deeper about its logical foundations. We discuss ways to strengthen the foundations of sexual selection theory by relaxing central assumptions.

Keywords: sexual selection; reproductive behaviour; evolution

Free keywords: sexual selection; anisogamy; sex roles; female demographic dominance

Contributing organizations

Related projects

Ministry reporting: Yes

VIRTA submission year: 2023

JUFO rating: 3