Question

A female exhibits two major approaches in choosing a mate, selecting either the phenotypic characteristics of the mate or the

A) number of other females the male has in his harem.
B) ability of the male to provide resources.
C) number of offspring the male has previously produced.
D) age of the male.

Answer 1

Females in animal species tend to choose mates based on phenotypic characteristics or the ability of the male to provide resources, indicating good genes and increasing the likelihood of healthy offspring.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a female exhibits major approaches in choosing a mate, she can either select based on the phenotypic characteristics of the mate or other factors. These additional factors can include the ability of the male to provide resources, which is a consideration males use to maximize their reproductive opportunities, especially in terms of fecundity and the quality of offspring. In the context of sexual selection, females may be more selective than males, looking for indicators of good genes or other desirable traits.

Male secondary sexual characteristics may include larger size, brighter colors, or elaborate displays that can attract a female and signal good health or genetic fitness. Intersexual selection involves such mate choices, where females may prefer males with certain traits that suggest superior genetics, which can increase the chances of producing healthy offspring, regardless of a male’s age.