Sexual Selectivity of Male Poecilia reticulata Based on Female Coloration

Abstract

During this study, we subjected a male guppy to two different color models and observed courtship/mating behavior displayed by that male. Our two female models are different in color one being true red, putting off a long wavelength-sensitive color spectrum, and the other being true purple omitting a much shorter color wavelength. We hypothesize that the male would show more sexual interest in the red model because they are long wavelength-sensitive. Despite the inconsistences in our data, and our unsupported hypothesis we raise a lot of notable questions to be further studied in respect to sexual selection behavior and evolution of the species.