The Evolution of Insect Mating Systems

Abstract The Evolution of Insect Mating Systems by Thornhill and Alcock was one of the key texts that helped define modern behavioural ecology. Published in 1983, it has had a huge impact in shaping ‘adaptationist’ approaches to the study of animal behaviour, ending up far more than the sum of its parts, and influencing the study of the evolution of reproductive behaviour far beyond the taxonomic remit of insects. While much in the original remains relevant today, our aim in this edited volume is to bring together some of world’s leading insect researchers to bring the empirical and conceptual scope of the original book up to date. We explore the evolution of often complex forms of sex determination in insects, and the role of sexual selection in shaping the evolution of mating systems. Selection arising via male contest competition and female choice, both before and after copulation are discussed, as are the roles of parasites and pathogens in mediating the strength of sexual selection, and the role that parental care plays in successful reproduction.