Final answer:
Males compete for mates by developing impressive traits that signal genetic superiority. There are two main theories that explain this behavior: the good genes hypothesis and the Fisherian runaway model.
Step-by-step explanation:
Males compete for mates by developing impressive traits that signal genetic superiority to females. These traits are known as secondary sexual characteristics and can include elaborate ornaments, courtship behaviors, or colorful plumage.
There are two main theories that explain why males develop these traits. The first is the good genes hypothesis, which states that males develop impressive traits to show off their efficient metabolism or ability to fight disease. Females choose males with these traits because it signals genetic superiority, which they pass on to their offspring. The second theory is the Fisherian runaway model, which suggests that certain traits are a result of sexual preference. Females choose mates with these traits because they find them attractive, leading to the evolution and exaggeration of these traits over time.