Meeting Abstract
Sexual selection, the ultimate mechanism driving the evolution of sexual dimorphism in animals, includes both intra and inter-sexual components. Here, the interaction between intra- and inter-sexual selection pressures was explored on female mate preference in the monogamous convict cichlid, Amatitlania nigrofasciata. We hypothesized that female mate preference would be influenced primarily by male quality, but also intrasexual competition. To test this, two females were allowed to compete while provided a choice of potential male mates. As a result, each female formed a time-based preference for one of two males and both females secured a male partner. In a follow-up treatment, we differed the quality (size) of the two potential male mates and found both females demonstrated a preference for the high-quality (larger) male over the low-quality (smaller) male. This resulted in one female successfully securing a partner, while the other rejected a low-quality male and remained alone. We then explored whether the decision to reject a low-quality male was due to, or independent of, female-female competition. Single females were allowed to form a preference for a large male over a small male. After preference formation, the large male was removed and behavior of the female to the rejected male was observed when given 1) no other option or 2) a similar low-quality novel male. We found that females preferred to spend time alone, or with a novel low-quality male rather than with the rejected male. Together, these data suggest that females adjust their threshold for mate preference. Furthermore, females maintain rejection of a male, despite the absence of another potential mate and independent of intrasexual competition.
