One approach to understanding the causes of the differences between males and females as well as the implications of such differences for social interactions between them, is to perform detailed studies of organisms in which the "traditional" sex role are reversed. Such species exist, although they are few in number. This research will involve a detailed behavioral study of Jacanas jacana a species of Shorebird. In this species males perform all of the "parental" care of the eggs and young. Females compete among themselves to obtain access to males. By individually marking all members of a population, the researchers will detail social interactions and reproductive outcome. The study offers opportunities to gain insights into the evolution of sex-role reversal and the origins of exclusive male parental care. It should also lead to a better understanding of the dynamics of reproductive conflict between the sexes. The study will provide information of use in assessing tropical biodiversity since this species is one of the most ubiquitous indicator species inhabiting aquatic habitats throughout the would's tropics.
