Ecological causes of sexual dimorphism.

Abstract

Sexual selection can account for the origin and maintenance of sexual dimorphism and many examples are known for which sexual selection seems to be the only explanation. Ecological causes of sexual dimorphism are much more difficult to establish and the distinction between the origin and maintenance of the dimorphism becomes important. Ecological differences between males and females could help maintain dimorphism in a trait such as body size even though that dimorphism originated through the action of sexual selection. The more difficult question to answer is whether there are purely ecological causes for the origin of sexual dimorphisms. The theoretical side of this question is investigated and different possible ecological factors that could lead to sexual dimorphism are examined. -from Author