Abstract
A study of proximate causation of mate choice can help to engage students in the topic of sexual selection. We developed a new and flexible method for observing mate choice behavior in guppies (Poecilia reticulata.) Students observe male preference for 3D-printed fish models of female fish of different sizes, colors, and shapes to determine what traits are important in sexual selection. In their first week, the students expose a male guppy to a standard suite of different 3D-printed models. They then request modifications for the next week and the week afterward. The investigation engages students’ abilities to carefully observe animals, quantify those observations, and use evolutionary reasoning to communicate their findings in a scientific manuscript peer-reviewed by anonymous new scientists. The use of 3D printers overcomes a hurdle (crafting accurate models that can be manipulated) making this type of authentic research accessible to a large and
broader audience.
broader audience.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Tested Studies for Laboratory Teaching |
Subtitle of host publication | Proceedings for the 39th Workshop/Conference of the Association for Biology Laboratory Education (ABLE), June 13-16, 2017 |
Editors | K. McMahon |
Place of Publication | USA |
Publisher | Association for Biology Laboratory Education |
Number of pages | 13 |
Volume | 38 |
ISBN (Print) | 1-890444-17-0 |
Publication status | Published - 13 Jun 2017 |
Event | 39th Association for Biology Laboratory Education Meeting (ABLE) - University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, United States Duration: 13 Jun 2017 → 16 Jun 2017 Conference number: 39 http://www.ableweb.org/conferences/able2017/ |
Conference
Conference | 39th Association for Biology Laboratory Education Meeting (ABLE) |
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Abbreviated title | ABLE |
Country/Territory | United States |
City | Madison |
Period | 13/06/17 → 16/06/17 |
Internet address |
Keywords
- Guppies
- Ethology
- Sexual selection
- 3D-Printing