Readings on mating systems and sexual selectionIf your name begins with an early letter in the alphabet choose one of the first papers listed ... if it begins with a late letter choose one of the last papers listed ... if it is in the middle pick a paper about a proportionate way down the list! Some papers are more difficult . . . but I keep that in mind when reading your reports and listening to your discussion! Prepare a two page report ... use the Reading Report Form (see link on main page) for your report. Pay special attention to the general issue relevant to the paper you choose and its specific aims . . . Skim at least one other paper . . . read the abstract, introduction, and summary (or end of the discussion) . . . also look at the figures. Come to class prepared to discuss your paper and to join in the discussion of other papers. Good discussions include lots of questions . . . to avoid feeling uncomfortable about challenging someone or being challenged . . .
Questions to keep in mindDo all males reproduce equally? Do all females reproduce equally? Are there "extra" (nonreproducing) males? What do they do? Are female preferences direct or indirect? Do males compete for mates? Which male traits important for access to mates? Are there costs or benefits to female choice (direct or indirect)? Does ecology (food, predators, climate, water, other species) affect how males and females interact?
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