Evolution: inbreeding, multiple mating and embryonic aid.
Females frequently mate with more than one male, but it is rarely clear why. In species where related individuals frequently meet, multiple mating may allow females to avoid fertilising their eggs with sperm from a close relative. A new study suggests that promiscuous females do indeed suffer lower costs of inbreeding, but that this is because of interactions between embryos.
Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter in Cornwall, Tremough Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK. D.J.Hosken@exeter.ac.uk
David J
DJ
Hosken
Tom
T
Tregenza
D000818:Animals; D001097:Arachnida / Q000196:embryology / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D005075:Biological Evolution; D005260:Female; D007178:Inbreeding; D012641:Selection, Genetic; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal