Evolution, Domestication, and Sexual Selection

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to evolution, domestication, and various theories surrounding sexual selection.

Natural Selection

The process whereby organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Byproducts of Adaptations

Traits that become associated with adaptations but do not necessarily serve a direct beneficial role.

Progressivism Fallacy

The incorrect belief that evolution is a linear process leading to improvement or perfection.

Domestication

A form of artificial selection by humans to achieve specific traits in a species over generations.

Phenotypic Traits

Observable characteristics or traits of an organism, such as size, coloration, and behavior.

Cultural Primatology

The study of culture in non-human primates, originally initiated in Japan.

Commensal Pathway

A proposed pathway for domestication initiated by the animal (e.g., dogs and cats).

Niche Construction Theory

The theory that organisms actively shape their own ecological niches, affecting their evolution.

Paedomorphosis

The retention of juvenile features in the adult stage of an organism.

Sexual Selection

A mode of natural selection where individuals develop traits to attract mates and reproduce.

Epigametic Sexual Characteristics

Traits that are associated with a potential mate's health and reproductive capability, such as bright colors or elaborate plumage.

Sexual Dimorphism

The difference in appearance between males and females of the same species, often related to secondary sexual characteristics.

Good Genes Theory

A theory suggesting that certain traits indicate good genetic quality, promoting reproductive success.

Runaway Selection Theory

A theory explaining how traits become exaggerated due to female preference in mating.

Honest Indicators

Traits that provide true information about an individual's fitness to potential mates, often costly to maintain.

Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)

A set of molecules displayed on cell surfaces that allows the immune system to recognize foreign substances.

Fluctuating Asymmetry Hypothesis

The hypothesis that symmetrical individuals are perceived as having better genetic quality.

Hybridization

The process where two different species interbreed, resulting in mixed offspring.

K-selected species

Species that produce fewer offspring with more parental investment in each.

R-selected species

Species that produce many offspring with minimal parental care.