Females drive postmating reproductive trait evolution across Drosophila species, but not via remating rate.

ABSTRACT: While traits that contribute to premating sexual interactions are known to be wildly diverse, much less is known about the diversity of postmating (especially female) reproductive traits and the mechanisms shaping this diversity. To assess the rate, pattern, and potential drivers of postmating reproductive trait evolution, we analyzed male and female traits across up to 30 Drosophila species within a phylogenetic comparative framework. In addition to postmating reproductive morphology (e.g., sperm length, reproductive tract length and mass), we also quantified mating behaviors including female remating rate-a common proxy for the strength of postmating sexual selection. We found evidence for strong coevolution between male and female postmating traits (specifically sperm length and

SUBMITTER: Peckenpaugh B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11507895 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature