Comment on "Bateman in nature: predation on offspring reduces the potential for sexual selection"

Science. 2013 May 3;340(6132):549. doi: 10.1126/science.1233246.

Abstract

Byers and Dunn (Reports, 9 November 2012, p. 802) claimed that predation on offspring reduced the potential for sexual selection in pronghorn. We argue that the potential for sexual selection is not affected by random offspring mortality when relative reproductive success is considered and increases when measured with the opportunity for selection, a metric that describes the potential for selection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antelopes / physiology*
  • Female
  • Male
  • Mating Preference, Animal*
  • Predatory Behavior*
  • Sexual Behavior, Animal*