Which evolutionary mechanism favours traits that increase mating success, such as certain displays or plumage?

Fact

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Sexual selection favours traits that increase an individual’s chances of obtaining a mate or mating successfully. It can operate through competition among members of the same sex or through mate choice. Large antlers, elaborate songs and some brightly coloured plumage are classic examples. Darwin introduced this idea in “On the Origin of Species” and developed it at length in “The Descent of Man”. A sexually selected trait may consume energy or make an animal more visible to predators. Its evolutionary advantage can therefore come from reproductive success rather than from improving survival alone.