Sexual Selection
Sexual selection is a natural process where certain traits increase an individual's chances of attracting mates. This can lead to the development of features that may not necessarily aid in survival but enhance reproductive success. For example, the bright plumage of a peacock can attract females, even though it may make the male more visible to predators.
There are two main types of sexual selection: intrasexual selection, where individuals compete for mates, and intersexual selection, where one sex chooses mates based on specific traits. These processes contribute to the evolution of diverse characteristics within species, influencing their mating behaviors and reproductive strategies.