[Campbell Biology P.1202] Based on the provided text, which of the following is a potential c... | Practice Question

Based on the provided text, which of the following is a potential consequence of sexual selection, specifically mate-choice copying and male competition for mates?

  • A: Both mate-choice copying and male competition consistently increase the genetic variation among males within a population.
  • B: Mate-choice copying always leads to the selection of less colorful males, while male competition always results in violent, non-ritualized contests.
  • C: Both mate-choice copying and male competition for mates have the potential to reduce variation among males for certain traits.
  • D: Male competition for mates always leads to the evolution of a single, dominant male mating behavior, regardless of species.

Explanation

The text explicitly states that 'male competition for mates can reduce variation among males.' It also mentions that 'mate-choice copying can thus mask genetically controlled female preference below a certain threshold of difference,' implying a reduction in the expressed variation of preferred traits. Therefore, both mechanisms have the potential to reduce variation in males, making option C correct. Options A, B, and D contain inaccuracies or overgeneralizations not supported by the text.