Phylogenetic analysis of sexual dimorphism in eye-lid geckos (Eublepharidae): the effects of male combat, courtship behavior, egg size, and body size
This chapter summarizes research on sexual size dimorphism (SSD) in eye-lid geckos (Eublepharidae) by integrating morphological, behavioural, and life-history data, and using phylogenetic analyses to determine which variable(s) may explain SSD. These comparisons reveal that male combat has disappeared twice within this family, and both events were associated with losses of male scent glands and male-biased head size dimorphism, which is consistent with the predictions of sexual selection theory. Evolutionary changes in male-male aggression, in the complexity of courtship display, or in relative egg size were not correlated with reversals from male-biased to female-biased SSD. Eublepharids demonstrate Rensch's rule, since in small species females tend to be larger whereas in large species males are larger. An explanation of this common allometric pattern will be necessary for a full understanding of SSD in this family.
Keywords: Eublepharidae, lizards, Rensch's rule, sexual selection
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