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Sexual selection Knowledge-Based Practice

Biology · Evolution · Biology · Population Genetics

3 Biology practice questions on Sexual selection. Questions that assess core concepts and understanding.

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Questions

  1. 1.

    In evolutionary biology, which mechanism is primarily responsible for the rapid exaggeration of an ornamental trait under Fisherian runaway selection?

    • A) Natural selection directly favoring the ornamental trait because it enhances daily foraging efficiency and predator evasion.
    • B) Physical combat between competing individuals that drives directional selection for offensive weaponry independently of mate choice.
    • C) Recurrent non-random somatic mutations in secondary sexual structures that permanently override stabilizing selection.
    • D) A genetic correlation establishing a self-reinforcing feedback loop between the male trait and female preference for that trait.
  2. 2.

    In evolutionary biology, sexual selection typically operates through either intrasexual or intersexual mechanisms. Which of the following scenarios best illustrates intrasexual selection?

    • A) Female peahens choosing mates based on the brightness and size of the male eye-spotted train.
    • B) Female hangingflies preferentially mating with males that present larger protein-rich prey as nuptial gifts.
    • C) Male elephant seals fighting vigorously on coastal beaches to establish dominance and monopolize access to a harem of females.
    • D) Female gray treefrogs selectively approaching and mating with males that produce longer acoustic calls.
  3. 3.

    Which statement accurately explains how sexual selection can maintain traits that appear detrimental to an organism's survival?

    • A) It operates exclusively on physiological adaptations that maximize lifespan under intense predation pressure.
    • B) It ensures that all males in a breeding population attain equal reproductive success across generations.
    • C) It acts randomly on non-heritable behaviors to elevate phenotypic variation without shifting allele frequencies.
    • D) It favors heritable traits that confer a mating advantage, even if those traits impose a cost on viability or longevity.

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