Teaching CSIR NET Mock Test Series Life Sciences Evolution and Behavior Brain, Behavior and Evolution
The handicap principle, proposed by Amotz Zahavi, explains the evolution of costly traits in males that are attractive to females. According to this model, females prefer males with such traits because they signal genetic quality despite their cost. Which one of the following statements is an assumption of the handicap principle?
1
The costly traits in males are heritable, and females have a preference for them due to their association with genetic fitness.
2
Costly traits in males are not heritable, but females prefer these traits due to random variation.
3
Females do not prefer costly traits, and these traits do not signal genetic fitness.
4
Costly traits in males are not linked to genetic quality but arise due to genetic drift.