relationships

Slide 1

• Anisogamy - differences between male and female sex cells (gametes). Male gametes are extremely small, highly mobile, vast numbers from puberty to old age. Female gametes are large, static, produced in intervals. A fertile woman is a rare 'resource'. Important in partner preference as it gives rise to 2 mating strategies - inter and intra-sexual selection.
• Inter-sexual selection - female, quality over quantity. Robert Trivers (1972) - female makes a greater investment of time, commitment and resources. Pays to be choosy. Optimum mating strategy is to select genetically fit partner who is able and willing to provide resources.
• Intra-sexual selection - male, quantity over quality
• Evaluation