Dissertation Research: The Role of Selection in Maintaining Variation in Mate Communication

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Abstract IBN 96-23034 Markow and Bertram Role of Selection in Maintaining Variation in Mate Communication Mate communication signals should exhibit minimal variation because they function in species recognition. However, intra-specific variation in mating signals is common. This variation is proposed to result from opposing sexual and natural selection, but few systems are amenable to direct tests of this hypothesis. The specific aim of the proposed research is to determine if selective forces shape observed signal variation in a field cricket. Calling behavior in Gryllus integer is sexually selected, but appears to be subject to natural selection by acoustically orienting parasitoids. To accomplish the specific goal, research will first determine the extent of within-male variation in calling behavior, and whether males facultatively adjust their calling behavior when exposed to parisitoids. Selection experiments will then determine how natural and sexual selection influence inter-male variation in calling behavior over several generations. The proposed research will be the first experimental test of the hypothesis that conflicting selection forces shape mating signals within a population.