Chemical communication and its role in sexual selection across Animalia

Abstract

Sexual selection has been studied as a major evolutionary driver of animal diversity for roughly 50 years. Much evidence indicates that competition for mates favors elaborate signaling traits. However, this evidence comes primarily from a few taxa, leaving sexual selection as a salient evolutionary force across Animalia largely untested. Here, we reviewed the evidence for sexual selection on communication across all animal phyla, classes, and orders with emphasis on chemoreception, the only sense shared across lifeforms. An exhaustive literature review documented evidence for sexual selection on chemosensory traits in 10 of 34 animal phyla and indications of sexual selection on chemosensory traits in an additional 13 phyla. Potential targets of sexual selection include structures and processes involved in production, delivery, and detection of chemical signals. Our review suggests sexual selection plays a widespread role in the evolution of communication and highlights the need for research that better reflects animal diversity.

The reduction of nuptial gifts in sclerosomatid Opiliones coincides with increased behavioural sexual conflict

“…Animals employ a multitude of tactics to increase their fitness during mating interactions, including direct intrasexual competition, mate choice, elaborate signals, and physical or chemical coercion (Buchinger & Li 2023; Davranoglue et al 2023; Edward & Chapman 2011; Órfão et al 2023; Rosvall 2011; Schaefer & Ruxton 2015; Shuker & Kvarnemo 2021). Of these myriad strategies, nuptial gifts are among the most unique in their almost altruistic appearance.…”