Mammalian Sexuality: The Act of Mating and the Evolution of Reproduction

The book explores the complex interrelationships between patterns of mating behavior and the evolution of mammalian reproductive anatomy and physiology, focusing on the roles of copulatory and post-copulatory sexual selection, sperm competition, and cryptic female choice. It also discusses the modes of life of mammals and the roles played by natural selection and phylogeny in determining their reproductive traits.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 400 pages
\n Publication date: 03 June 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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The Class Mammalia is a vast and diverse group of over 6000 species, belonging to twenty-seven orders. These species offer remarkable opportunities for comparative studies, allowing us to formulate and test hypotheses about the evolution of reproduction. This groundbreaking book is the first to delve into the intricate connections between mating behavior patterns and the evolution of mammalian reproductive anatomy and physiology. It specifically focuses on the roles played by copulatory and post-copulatory sexual selection in the evolution of monotremes, marsupials, and placental mammals, as well as the impact of sperm competition and cryptic female choice on the coevolution of genitalia in both sexes. Additionally, the book explores the modes of life of mammals and the influence of natural selection and phylogeny on their reproductive traits. By examining these complex interrelationships, this book provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of mammalian reproduction and its significance in shaping the diversity of life on Earth.
The Class Mammalia is a vast and diverse group of over 6000 species, belonging to twenty-seven orders. These species offer remarkable opportunities for comparative studies, allowing us to formulate and test hypotheses about the evolution of reproduction. This groundbreaking book is the first to delve into the intricate connections between mating behavior patterns and the evolution of mammalian reproductive anatomy and physiology. It specifically focuses on the roles played by copulatory and post-copulatory sexual selection in the evolution of monotremes, marsupials, and placental mammals, as well as the impact of sperm competition and cryptic female choice on the coevolution of genitalia in both sexes. Additionally, the book explores the modes of life of mammals and the influence of natural selection and phylogeny on their reproductive traits. By examining these complex interrelationships, this book provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of mammalian reproduction and its significance in shaping the diversity of life on Earth.

The study of comparative biology provides valuable insights into the evolution of reproduction in mammals. By examining the diverse range of extant species within the Class Mammalia, researchers can identify patterns and trends that shed light on the processes that have shaped the reproductive systems of these animals. One area of particular interest is the evolution of mating behavior and reproductive anatomy. Comparative studies have shown that different species of mammals have evolved a wide variety of mating strategies, from promiscuous to monogamous, and that these strategies have been influenced by factors such as environmental conditions, resource availability, and social organization. For example, some species of mammals, such as primates, have evolved complex social structures that facilitate mate selection and reproductive cooperation, while others, such as birds, have evolved specialized reproductive organs that allow for efficient mate attraction and fertilization. Another important area of study is the evolution of reproductive physiology. Comparative studies have shown that the reproductive systems of mammals have evolved in response to a variety of environmental pressures, such as changes in temperature and nutrient availability. For example, some species of mammals have evolved specialized reproductive organs that allow for delayed fertilization or the production of small litter sizes, which are adaptations to harsh environments. In addition to these areas of study, comparative biology also provides insights into the roles that natural selection and phylogeny play in the evolution of reproduction. Natural selection can act on both mating behavior and reproductive anatomy, leading to the evolution of traits that are advantageous in a particular environment. For example, some species of mammals have evolved larger body sizes or more complex social structures in response to competition for resources. Phylogeny, on the other hand, can influence the evolution of reproductive traits by shaping the genetic relationships between different species. For example, species that share a common ancestor may have inherited similar reproductive traits, which can facilitate the evolution of new reproductive strategies. Overall, the study of comparative biology provides a rich and complex understanding of the evolution of reproduction in mammals. By examining the diverse range of extant species and the factors that have influenced their evolution, researchers can gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity and complexity of the animal kingdom.

\n Weight: 922g\n
Dimension: 176 x 250 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781108426183\n \n