Book Looks At The Genetics Of The Mating Game

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - A new book edited by University of Arkansas biology professor William Etges takes the mating game to the genetic level.

Etges and Mohamed A.F. Noor of Louisiana State University have co-edited a book called "Genetics of Mate Choice: From Sexual Selection to Sexual Isolation." The book features 19 chapters that address topics including hybrid infertility, sexual signaling, reproductive isolation, speciation, inheritance and mate choice—all from the standpoint of genetics. The book examines these genetic issues in the mating characteristics of guppies, domesticated birds, lacewings, butterflies and fruit flies.

Until recently, studies of species formation focused on the complex behavioral changes in mating behavior and sexual selection. Mammals, birds, insects and reptiles all have novel—and sometimes multiple—ways of attracting mates: Singing, dancing, displaying their colors or sporting big horns. But little is known about the genetic basis of mating and courtship rituals, and how this relates to the formation of species.

The book was designed to present an overview of the current state of genetic research as it relates to mating behavior, presenting state-of-the-art research in various aspects of the field.

"A lot of this research is headed toward molecular biology," Etges said. "Researchers are starting to look for the genes that control behavior."

The research presented in the book brings up questions about the genetic evolution of chemical and visual cues that form the basis of courtship in certain species. Researchers have studied a number of mating and courtship behavior systems in birds, fish and insects. They also have genetic information on many of these creatures. But rarely have the two been paired together. For instance, small changes at the molecular genetic level can cause major changes in the hydrocarbons that differentiate male and female fruit flies of the species Drosophila melanogaster, Etges said.

"The challenge will be looking for these patterns at the molecular level that may have something to do with sexual selection," Etges said.

The book was published by Kluwer Academic Publishers.