The evolution of insect mating systems

by John Alcock

Here is the first comprehensive analysis of insect reproductive behavior to employ a modern evolutionary perspective. As such it represents a marriage of two disciplines—entomology and modern evolutionary theory—which have recently made great strides, but in partial isolation from each other. By reviewing all of insect reproductive behavior from an evolutionary viewpoint, Thornhill and Alcock make a powerful case for the importance of sexual selection. In doing so they show the riches to be gained from an integration of theory and example.

576 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

John Alcock (b. 1942) is an American behavioral ecologist and author. He is currently the Emeritus' Professor in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University. His research interests include the evolution of diversity in insect populations, studying the adaptive value of different ways in which males find mating partners. He has authored several books, including The Kookaburras' Song: Exploring Animal Behavior in Australia (1988), Sonoran Desert Summer (1990), The Triumph of Sociobiology (2003), and Animal Behavior: An Evolutionary Approach (ninth edition, 2009). He authored Sonoran Desert Spring (1994) which was illustrated by Marilyn Hoff Stewart, and also authored In a Desert Garden: Love and Death Among the Insects (1999) illustrated by Turid Forsyth.

Alcock is one of the original scientists to participate in the Ask A Biologist program and continues to participate in interviews as well as answering questions from students around the world.