The type of selection that often results in showy characteristics in males is
selection. It is also called mate choice.

Question

The type of selection that often results in showy characteristics in males is 
 selection. It is also called mate choice.

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks to fill in the blank: The type of selection that often results in showy characteristics in males is _____ selection. It is also called mate choice.

First, recognize the concept involved: in evolutionary biology, there are two main types of natural selection related to reproduction: natural selection (survival-based) and sexual selection (reproduction-based). Within sexual selection, there are two components often discussed: intrasexual selection (competition among members of the same sex) and intersexual selection (mate choice by the other sex). The phrase 'showy characteristics in males' is a classic hallmark of sexual selection, particularly intersexual selection where females choose flashy male traits, like bright plumage or elaborate displays.

Next, evaluate the provided answer and options. The given answer is 'sexual', which aligns with the standard terminology: sexual selection is the type of selection that leads to conspicuous traits used to attract mates and win reproductive opportunities. The clue in the prompt also says it is 'also called mate choice,' which directly corresponds to intersexual selection, a subset of sexual selection driven by female choice.

If there had been alternative options (for example, 'natural' selection or 'artificial' selection), they would not fit the clue. Natural selection emphasizes adaptations for survival rather than mate attraction, so it typically does not specifically produce showy male traits connected to mate choice. Artificial selection involves human-directed breeding, which is unrelated to natural mating preferences in the wild. However, since the prompt explicitly ties the term to mate choice, those alternatives would be incorrect.

In summary, the correct concept here is sexual selection, the evolutionary force behind exaggerated male traits used to attract mates and secure reproductive success, which is often described as mate choice.

The type of selection that often results in showy characteristics in males is selection. It is also called mate choice.

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