Courtship Behaviour
Biology: AQA A Level, topic 4.5.1
Courtship Behaviour
Species are defined as two organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring. Courtship behaviour is an important factor to consider when classifying species.
Mating
- Organisms within the same species can mate to produce fertile offspring.
- It is important that organisms only breed with individuals of the same species so that they can pass their genes to their offspring.
Identifying mates
- Potential mates of the same species can be identified through courtship behaviours.
- Courtship behaviours are complex displays that help an individual attract a mate.
- E.g. The male superb bird of paradise spreads its wing and dances to attract a female.
Species-specific
- Courtship behaviours are useful when classifying species because they are species-specific.
- Individuals of the same species will do the same courtship behaviour.
- Only individuals within the same species will respond to the courtship behaviour.
- And so, courtship behaviours are a useful tool for classifying species.
E.g. Peacocks
- Peacocks have beautiful patterns on their tails.
- The peacocks display their tails to females (peahens) to attract a mate.
- Only male peacocks have this specific pattern on the tail and only female peahens will respond to this pattern.
Test yourself on Courtship Behaviour
Which of the following statements about courtship behaviours are true?
Why are courtship behaviours useful when classifying species?