Home > Science Seminar > Spring 2005 Seminar Schedule > Poison Dart Frog Ecology
The Science Seminar Series: April 7, 2005
Poison Dart Frog Ecology and Sexual Selection Theory: Field Experiments and Office Cogitations
Dr. Brent Graves, Professor, Department of Biology
Northern Michigan University
Room 1011 Biology/Chemistry BuildingTime: 4:00 -5:00pm
Sexual selection is selection for traits that enhance the probability of obtaining mates, even if such traits decrease the probability of survival. Sexual selection leads to the evolution of sexual dimorphism, and has had important influences on many biological systems. This talk will begin with a discussion of research by Dr. Graves and his graduate students on the ecology and territorial behavior of poison dart frogs in Costa Rica. These frogs are well known for their bright coloration and complex social behaviors. Much of this behavior has evolved in response to sexual selection. Next, Dr. Graves will discuss evolutionary theory concerning the role of sexually transmitted diseases in sexual selection, as well as the evolution sexual dimorphism in human senescence.