War in Sex Parental Conflict and the Evolution of Mating Systems
Date of Award
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Natural Sciences
First Advisor
Beulig, Alfred
Keywords
Sexual Reproduction, Parental Conflict, Polygyny, Monogamy, Polyandry
Area of Concentration
Biology
Abstract
This thesis explored the environmental ramifications on the evolution of mating behaviors and the classifications of mating systems in the context of parental conflict concerning parental investment in offspring. The early beginnings of sexual reproduction are first reviewed as it sets up the initial conditions of unequal parental investment. Parental conflict proves to be a pervasive force that plays an important role in the mating system a species uses and the decisions an individual makes when choosing a mate. Polygyny, monogamy and polyandry are the three general classifications of mating systems and are shown to be dependent on the environment as well as parental conflict. Animal models and studies are presented here, although no single species is the focus, as well as a review of various hypotheses surrounding each topic. Finally, I apply the findings in animals to human behaviors to explain the diversity of mating tactics that are employed by today.
Recommended Citation
Hung, Angela, "War in Sex Parental Conflict and the Evolution of Mating Systems" (2006). Theses & ETDs. 3660.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3660
Rights
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