BIOA01 Writing Assignment, Part 1: Sexual Selection

For this assignment, I have chosen to research the phenomenon of sexual selection.

From my previous knowledge of this subject, I know that sexual selection is a form of natural

selection that alters the behaviour and morphology of organisms. These changes improve

individuals’ reproductive success by increasing their appeal to potential mates.

Although examples of sexual selection are widespread, I am most familiar with those

exhibited by birds as a result of both media (online articles and videos) and personal

observation. For instance, male individuals of many of Ontario’s native bird species use

bright coloration and song to attract females.

In my investigation of this topic, I hope to uncover how features and behaviours

relating to sexual selection impact organisms outside of reproductive capability. In particular,

I am interested in whether traits developed by sexual selection may occasionally enhance

organisms’ reproductive fitness at the expense of their long-term survival.