Variability in precipitation weakens sexual selection for nuptial gifts in spiders

The American Naturalist, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 204(5), P. 453 - 467

Published: July 25, 2024

AbstractEnvironmental conditions (i.e., climatic variation) can strongly influence the cost and benefits of reproductive traits. Yet there is still no consensus on whether changing environmental strengthen or relax sexual selection. Evidence from literature suggests that highly variable environments limit mate choice investment in traits, hence relaxing selection pressures. Here, we tested this hypothesis using nuptial gift-giving spider

Language: Английский

Stressful environments favor deceptive alternative mating tactics to become dominant

BMC Biology, Journal Year: 2023, Volume and Issue: 21(1)

Published: July 27, 2023

Abstract Background Deceptive alternative mating tactics are commonly maintained at low frequencies within populations because males using them less competitive and acquire lower fitness than those dominant tactics. However, the successful invasion of a male deceptive tactic is plausible if deception carries no cost to females. Among gift-giving spider Paratrechalea ornata , very often offer females worthless gift, rather nutritive gift . We tested degree which gifts can occur in natural living under divergent environmental conditions (moderate stressful). examined plasticity morphological behavioral traits analyzed relation type, also examining paternity acquired by offering either type. Results demonstrated that become highly stressful (84–100%). Individuals such environment reach smaller sizes moderate conditions. suggest size reduction probably favors metabolic demands both sexes may reduce costs associated with receiving for In contrast, varied use (0–95%), negatively influenced female fecundity. Furthermore, size, content, positively impacted success but not environment. Conclusions Overall, this first empirical evidence reversible when becomes harsh mate choice limited.

Language: Английский

When all males cheat post-copulatory competition limits worthless gift-giving frequency in spiders

Evolutionary Ecology, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: Dec. 3, 2024

Language: Английский