Sexually selected dichromatism in the hihi Notiomystis cincta: multiple colours for multiple receivers.

ABSTRACT: Why do some bird species show dramatic sexual dichromatism in their plumage? Sexual selection is the most common answer to this question. However, other competing explanations mean it is unwise to assume that all sexual dichromatism has evolved by this mechanism. Even if sexual selection is involved, further work is necessary to determine whether dichromatism results from competition amongst rival males, or by female choice for attractive traits, or both. Here, we test whether sexually dichromatic hihi (Notiomystis cincta) plumage is currently under sexual selection, with detailed behavioural and genetic analyses of a free-living island population. Bateman gradients measured for males and females reveal the potential for sexual selection, whilst selection gradients, relating reproductive s

SUBMITTER: Walker LK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4515105 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature