The Role of Sex Spectrum Differences in Reproductive Strategies and the Endocrine Mechanisms Underlying It

Abstract

AbstractDuring the process of sexual evolution, mammals have acquired different reproductive and social roles for males and females. Differences in the cost of sperm and egg have given rise to differences in the reproductive strategies of males and females. For example, distinct sex differences are observed in mating forms and investment in fostering. It can be assumed that sexual spectrum was brought about because individuals were able to successfully win in their reproductive strategies. Low-ranking males can escape the attacks of monopolizing males by concealing their “maleness.” And such a strategy can be described as a “spectrum.” We focused on testosterone as the molecular mechanism of this sex spectrum. After genetic sex determination, this sex spectrum may be brought about by regulating testosterone secretion. In this article, I introduce the relationship between reproductive forms and sex differences, as well as the function of testosterone in this context, and reconsider the meaning of sexual plasticity from the view of evolution.KeywordsMating systemSex differencesTestosteroneSocial structureMouse ultrasonic vocalization