The evolution of genital shape variation in female cetaceans.

摘要: Male genital diversification is likely the result of sexual selection. Female may also from selection, although it less well studied and understood. genitalia are complex among whales, dolphins, porpoises, especially compared to other vertebrates. The evolutionary factors affecting diversity vaginal complexity could include ontogeny, allometry, phylogeny, natural We quantified shape variation in female using 2D geometric morphometric analysis, validated application this method study soft tissues. explored patterns cervix vagina 24 cetacean species (n = 61 specimens), found that varies primarily relative length overall aspect ratio reproductive tract. Extensive was partly explained by ontogenetic changes allometry sexually mature cetaceans, whereas phylogenetic signal, testis size, neonate size were not significantly associated with shape. diverse evolves rapidly even closely related species, consistent predictions selection models findings invertebrate vertebrate taxa. Future research exploring 3D will offer new insights into mechanisms because internal structures variable can form spirals.