Lecture 4

Today we had an exciting lecture about mating systems and parental care. Our debate about the traditional polygyny threshold theorem (Orians 1969) and the sex son adaptation (Weatherhead and Robertson 1979) was wonderful. You were much more engaged in your discussions, you exchanged ideas more freely, worked as a team, problem solved, and then communicated your thoughts effectively. This technique forced a deeper understanding of the material. Please remember this level of engagement, for each time you read a new paper. I'm eager to hear your thoughts on the debate-style discussion when you fill in your daily feedback.

Mating systems
What conditions and characteristics determine the mating systems used by animals. How do males and females monopolize resources in the environment to obtain more mates, and ultimately, higher reproductive success?





Parental care
Why do parents provide care for their young after producing gametes? Among those species where parental care is beneficial, how is that care negotiated among both parents. What prevents one sex from abandoning their responsibilities, and when is it appropriate for care to be coordinated between the sexes? These differences can result in conflict, that at times can be reconciled.