MALE AND FEMALE ANIMALS OF the same species usually come in different forms or ‘morphs’. The two sexes have distinctive features that include not only visible differences in features such as colour, size and shape, but also in unseen traits that dictate physiology and behaviour. So why does this sexual dimorphism exist?
What’s a sexual morph?
Ignore the genitals! Biological sex is defined by an sexual characteristics. Dimorphism is defined by sexual characteristics – traits typical of males or females that aren’t directly involved in reproduction. Such traits help animals identify the opposite sex without staring rudely at the nether regions.
