Male mate-choice copying: a neglected aspect of sexual selection

Mate-choice copying occurs when the choices of others influence an individual's mating preferences. While this behavior has been observed across various species, most research has focused on female copying behavior. However, male mate-choice copying warrants independent attention due to the distinct benefits and costs it entails for males compared to females. Male mate-choice copying may confer advantages, such as reducing the risk of costly mistakes by relying on the mate choices of others, conserving time and energy spent on mate searching, and increasing the likelihood of securing a high-quality female mate. However, potential downsides include the risk of female rejection, intensified sperm competition, and the cost of missed opportunities. This review explores the scope of male mate-choice copying, the conditions under which it occurs, and its associated benefits and costs. Additionally, it highlights the need for further research, particularly in species with high reproductive costs or those exhibiting last-sperm precedence.