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Divergent sexual selection via male competition: ecology is key
Author(s) -
Lackey A. C. R.,
Boughman J. W.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
journal of evolutionary biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.289
H-Index - 128
eISSN - 1420-9101
pISSN - 1010-061X
DOI - 10.1111/jeb.12173
Subject(s) - biology , ecological speciation , sexual selection , reproductive isolation , stickleback , competition (biology) , ecology , mating , ecological selection , genetic algorithm , habitat , trait , disruptive selection , selection (genetic algorithm) , mate choice , evolutionary biology , zoology , natural selection , gene flow , population , fishery , genetic variation , biochemistry , demography , artificial intelligence , sociology , gene , fish <actinopterygii> , computer science , programming language
Sexual selection and ecological differences are important drivers of speciation. Much research has focused on female choice, yet the role of male competition in ecological speciation has been understudied. Here, we test how mating habitats impact sexual selection and speciation through male competition. Using limnetic and benthic species of threespine stickleback fish, we find that different mating habitats select differently on male traits through male competition. In mixed habitat with both vegetated and open areas, selection favours two trait combinations of male body size and nuptial colour: large with little colour and small with lots of colour. This matches what we see in reproductively isolated stickleback species, suggesting male competition could promote trait divergence and reproductive isolation. In contrast, when only open habitat exists, selection favours one trait combination, large with lots of colour, which would hinder trait divergence and reproductive isolation. Other behavioural mechanisms in male competition that might promote divergence, such as avoiding aggression with heterospecifics, are insufficient to maintain separate species. This work highlights the importance of mating habitats in male competition for both sexual selection and speciation.