Variance in reproductive success is a key driving factor in evolution. How does this affect sexual selection in mammals?
A) Male variance can be much greater than female variance, so males are potentially under very strong sexual selection.
B) Female variance can be much greater than female variance, so females are potentially under very strong sexual selection.
C) The level of variance determines the amount of resources shunted into parental investment; the sex with the highest variance produces the most food for offspring.
D) The sex with the lowest variance, usually mammals, has the highest average number of offspring.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Variance in reproductive success is typically much greater in males than females in mammals. This means that there is potentially strong sexual selection on males, as they compete to have the opportunity to mate with females. Females may also exhibit strong mate choice, as they selectively choose the males with the best genetic traits or resources for offspring.

Variance in Reproductive Success Is a Key Driving Factor in Evolution