Striking traits seen only in males of some species – such as colourful peacock feathers or butterfly wings – are partly explained by gene behaviour, research suggests.
Striking traits seen only in males of some species – such as colourful peacock feathers or butterfly wings – are partly explained by gene behaviour, research suggests.
The findings aid understanding of the phenomenon, which can help animals attract mates, but also make them more vulnerable to predators.
Genetics clues
Researchers studied the genetics of the guppy fish, whose males are brightly coloured compared with the dull brown of females.
Researchers at the Universities of Edinburgh and Exeter used populations of fish bred in the lab to carry out detailed studies of how genes are passed on during reproduction.
Scientists compared genetic maps over several generations alongside entire genetic codes, to understand how genes were inherited over time.
Combined DNA
In typical sexual reproduction, a set of genes from each parent would combine randomly to create offspring with a mix of features from both.
Read more at University of Edinburgh
