Abstract
A substantial body of work supports the role of sexual selection through female choice in the evolution of some of the most striking traits in biology. However, mate choice also acts on less conspicuous traits, for example, chemical traits. This thesis presents evidence for the role of sexual selection in the evolution of a chemical trait in insects, the cuticular hydrocarbons
(CHCs). Using two species of insect, investigations revealed the potential benefits of using CHCs in mate choice, the existence of costs to CHC production and how relaxing sexual selection affects the evolution of CHCs.
(CHCs). Using two species of insect, investigations revealed the potential benefits of using CHCs in mate choice, the existence of costs to CHC production and how relaxing sexual selection affects the evolution of CHCs.
Original language | English |
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Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
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Award date | 14 Nov 2018 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Unpublished - 2018 |