Secondary sexual characteristics are often considered a handicap because of increased
A) predation.
B) competition.
C) parasitism.
D) infertility.
E) All of the choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Secondary sexual characteristics, such as large antlers or brightly colored feathers, can make individuals more visible to predators, leading to increased predation risk. Therefore, these traits can be considered a handicap. While competition and parasitism may also be factors that impact the fitness of individuals with these traits, predation is the most direct impact. Infertility is not necessarily linked to secondary sexual characteristics.

Secondary Sexual Characteristics Are Often Considered a Handicap Because of Increased