Selection in Relation to Sex in Primates

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the main concepts of modern sexual selection theory and examines the evidence for the operation of sexual selection in primates. Traditional classifications of mating systems suffer from the problem of not considering reproductive strategies of both males and females equally and are biased by a strong male perspective. Modern sexual selection theory encompasses the conflicting interests of males and females and the evolutionary consequences of all aspects of competition for mates. The chapter focuses on causes, mechanisms, and consequences of sexual selection. In addition, the chapter accounts for the relevance of primates to sexual selection and relevance of sexual selection to primates; and summarizes a great variety of mating systems that exist in primates. The reproductive success of a male primate is limited by the number of females he can fertilize. The main scenarios from the males' perspective and females' perspective of sexual strategies are outlined. Male primates compete for access to females and their gametes; however, they also show mate choice and parental care for infants and this improves their reproductive success. However, female choice for male quality may be less important than female counter-strategies against male coercion, infanticide in particular. Female primate behavior tends to increase the number of males mated with. Female reproductive strategies can act in tandem with male strategies. However, female strategies may also be in opposition to male-male competition. By using a comparative and theory-oriented approach to examine and integrate recent developments in primate sexual selection studies, the chapter draws some general conclusions about sexual selection in primates, identifies reasons why primates were neglected in particular areas of sexual selection research, and stimulates future research on all aspects of sexual selection in primates.