Not All Sex Results in Reproduction

Abstract

Abstract In Chapter 2, the ability to replicate one’s genome without resorting to sex was examined. In this chapter, the engagement in sex repeatedly without reproduction being the immediate goal is considered. Males are often expected to engage in repeated intercourse, as fertilizing as many eggs as possible is usually the goal. However, females typically receive enough sperm from one male to fertilize all their eggs. The various reasons females engage in repeated copulation are often related to increased reproductive output, even though they may not immediately result in more offspring. These include hedging their bets against infertility or sperm depletion, getting materials from males that are obtained through sex, improving the genetic quality of their progeny, mate assessment, reassuring males of their paternity, and even to enhance social positioning. In some cases, males harass females or force them to mate. This difference in the copulation aims of males and females demonstrates sexual conflict, and repeated copulation by females is not in their best interest.