9700948 Warner The objective of this research is to describe the evolution of the diversity of reproductive patterns that are seen in animals today. This research will allow a field test of the predictions of mathematical models that include considerations of within- and between-gender conflict interactions and their resolution. The resolutions do not necessarily maximize the fitness of any of the participants, but the compromises achieved are the mating systems seen. Predictions using this approach differ significantly from those made by precious theory, and explain the existence of patterns of mating behavior that appear to confer lower individual mating success. The predictions will be tested in a well-known group of temperate fishes. Using simple, non-harmful techniques, the distribution of mating success in certain areas will be altered and the redistribution of males and females will be monitored. The model makes several non-intuitive predictions about male and female reactions to altered mating distributions. All models, especially those proposing a new way of thinking about the evolution of particular characteristics, need to be tested so that they may be evaluated in nature.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Integrative Organismal Systems (IOS)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
9700948
Program Officer
John A. Byers
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1997-06-15
Budget End
1999-05-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1997
Total Cost
$10,000
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California Santa Barbara
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Santa Barbara
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
93106