The figure below shows the reproductive success of two alternative mating strategies, with respect to their frequency in the population. Territorial males (solid line) defend territories to get mates, and Sneaker males (dashed line) obtain mating opportunities without having territories. Which one or more of the following conclusions can be drawn from this figure?
Show Hint
In evolutionary biology, the success of a strategy often depends on the frequency of competing strategies within the population.
The reproductive success of Territorial and Sneaker males can never be the same in the population
The reproductive success of Sneaker males is influenced by the proportion of Territorial males in the population
The highest possible reproductive success can be obtained by Sneaker males, and not Territorial males
Territorial males will always have a higher reproductive success than Sneaker males
Hide Solution
Verified By Collegedunia
The Correct Option isB, C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Analyze the Graph. The graph indicates that as the proportion of Territorial males increases, the reproductive success of both strategies changes. Sneaker strategy peaks at a moderate level of Territorial males, suggesting an optimal condition for Sneakers when there is a balance. Step 2: Impact on Reproductive Success. The reproductive success of Sneaker males varies inversely with an increase in Territorial males beyond a certain point, reflecting an optimal balance where Sneaker males can achieve the highest success without direct competition for territories.
