Natural and sexual selection on cuticular hydrocarbons: a quantitative genetic analysis.

ABSTRACT: While the reproductive benefits of sexual displays have been widely studied, we have relatively limited evidence of the fitness costs associated with most display traits. Insect cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles are sexually selected traits that also protect against desiccation. These two functions are thought to oppose each other, with investment in particular compounds believed to increase attractiveness at the expense of compounds that protect against water loss. We investigated this potential trade-off in a quantitative genetic framework using the Australian field cricket, Teleogryllus oceanicus. Several compounds were significantly genetically correlated with either attractiveness or desiccation resistance. Of these compounds, one was negatively genetically correlated with attracti

SUBMITTER: Berson JD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6532523 | biostudies-literature | 2019 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature