Dominant, recessive, sexual selection

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In summary, the speaker is wondering if there is a connection between a trait being dominant or recessive and it being preferred by mates. They give the example of monkeys with a dominant trait T and a recessive trait t, and question if tt monkeys tend to choose other tt monkeys while TT monkeys prefer TT or Tt monkeys. They suggest this could be a way for organisms to compare their DNA and preserve their genes. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this idea. They also mention examples from Mendel's pea experiments and pollination by insects, which do not show a preference based on dominant or recessive traits.
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honestrosewater
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(Actually, perhaps I should have dropped the sexual selection part from the title.)

Okay, stupid question that I'm curious about but don't know how to ask: Does anyone know whether there's any connection between a trait being dominant or recessive and a trait being preferred by mates?
That is, is it ever clear that something analogous to the following occurs: Say monkeys have a dominant trait T and a recessive trait t. The tt monkeys tend to choose other tt monkeys. And maybe TT monkeys prefer TT or Tt monkeys? Or maybe TT monkeys don't show a preference, but tt monkeys do. Or something - anything - like that.
What might be going on in these situations, if they did happen? It seems like this would be a case where organisms can compare parts of their DNA to each other, looking for a match that would best preserve their own DNA. That is, for instance, two tt parents produce tt offspring. tt and TT parents produce Tt offspring. So two tt parents getting together better preserves each parent's genes. ?? I realize it may not be that simple, but I don't know how much more complex it is. This is just stuff I remember from high school biology class.
 
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I am not aware of any scientific studies or statistics that suggest this trend. An example of what you are inquiring could be: those with blond hair preferring mates who also have blond hair.

Of course genetics is not limited to the animal kingdom. In Mendel's peas white flowers are recessive. In pollination by insects, the pollen from a white flower is not spread preferentially to other white flower pistils. They have an equal likelihood of reaching a red or purple flower.
 
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First of all, there is no such thing as a "stupid question" when it comes to science and biology. It's great that you are curious and seeking more information on this topic.

To answer your question, there is definitely a connection between dominant and recessive traits and sexual selection. In fact, sexual selection is one of the main driving forces behind the prevalence of certain traits in a population.

Dominant traits are those that are expressed when present in an individual's genetic makeup, while recessive traits are only expressed when an individual has two copies of the gene for that trait. In terms of sexual selection, dominant traits are often preferred by mates because they are more visible and attractive. This can be seen in many species, where males with larger antlers, brighter feathers, or more elaborate courtship displays are more likely to attract a mate.

On the other hand, recessive traits may not be as visible or attractive, and therefore may not be preferred by mates. This can lead to a decrease in the prevalence of these traits in a population over time, as individuals with these traits may have a harder time finding a mate and passing on their genes.

In terms of your example with monkeys, it is possible that individuals with the recessive tt trait may prefer other tt individuals as mates. This could be due to a preference for individuals with similar genetic makeup, as you mentioned in your question. However, it's important to note that sexual selection is a complex process and there are many other factors at play, such as environmental pressures and individual preference.

In conclusion, there is definitely a connection between dominant and recessive traits and sexual selection. Dominant traits are often preferred by mates, while recessive traits may not be as favored. This can have an impact on the prevalence of certain traits in a population over time. However, it's important to keep in mind that sexual selection is a complex process and there are many factors that can influence mate choice.
 

1. What is the difference between dominant and recessive traits?

Dominant traits are those that are expressed in an individual's phenotype, meaning they are physically visible or measurable. Recessive traits are only expressed when an individual has two copies of the recessive gene.

2. How does sexual selection play a role in determining dominant and recessive traits?

Sexual selection is the process by which certain traits become more common in a species due to their appeal to potential mates. This can influence the expression of dominant and recessive traits, as individuals with certain traits may be more likely to attract a mate and pass on their genes.

3. Can dominant traits be passed down from both parents?

Yes, dominant traits can be passed down from both parents if they both possess the dominant gene for that trait. In this case, the offspring will express the dominant trait.

4. How can you determine if a trait is dominant or recessive?

One way to determine if a trait is dominant or recessive is by observing its expression in offspring. If the trait is consistently expressed in offspring, it is likely dominant. If it only appears in certain offspring, it is likely recessive.

5. Can sexual selection impact the prevalence of recessive traits in a population?

Yes, sexual selection can impact the prevalence of recessive traits in a population. If a recessive trait is favored by potential mates, individuals with that trait may be more likely to reproduce and pass on their genes, leading to a higher prevalence of the recessive trait in the population.

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