User:Allergicapples/sandbox
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The conundrum of how additive genetic variation is maintained in the face of consistent female preferences in lek mating species is known as the "lek paradox". Female preference for a male sexual trait confers a genetic benefit to their offspring. Under directional sexual selection, this should lead to decreased genetic variance for that trait. This should, in theory, lead to "runaway selection" as described by R. A. Fisher, leading to fixation of the trait within the population and a corresponding dissaption[clarification needed] for the benefits of female preference. However, female preference still confers a genetic benefit for offspring fitness within mutliple species. The reason why this paradox is considered in regards to lek mating is that there are no direct benefits received by the female (i.e. nuptial gifts, parental care) which could explain this presence of variation in other mating systems. Multiple theories have been posited over the years to explain preservation of variation within the male population in regards to the sexual trait, and the corresponding benefits of female preference.[1]