Abstract
The chapter focuses on the fact that as compared to other mammals, including primates, humans are behaviorally, anatomically, and physiologically monandrous. However, sometimes multimale matings within the window of life-span of sperm and ovum also occur. Moreover, humans show adaptations to the possibility of sperm competition. The issue of sperm competition in humans still needs predictions that separate sperm competition from the alternative hypotheses. On the basis of this information, it can be inferred, that in eutherian mammals, the sperm fertile life-span tends to be short. In addition, there are no sperm-storage organs, the interactions between sperm and the female tract are complex and competition between ejaculates is in the nature of scramble competition not contesting competition. Sperm face major barriers within the female tract and the timing of mating in relation to ovulation determines male success at fertilization to a great extent. Thus, mechanisms of sperm competition in mammals appear to differ to a great extent from other taxa, in which sperm are stored within the female tract for long periods of time.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
