Sexual conflict refers to the evolutionary conflict that arises between males and females over reproductive interests. This conflict arises because males and females have different reproductive strategies and interests. For example, males can produce a large number of sperm with little energy investment, while females produce relatively fewer eggs that require significant investment in terms of energy and resources. As a result, males and females may have different goals when it comes to mating, such as maximizing the number of mates or maximizing the quality of offspring.
Sexual conflict can lead to coevolution between the sexes, as each sex evolves traits and behaviors that help them achieve their reproductive goals. For example, males may evolve traits that allow them to monopolize mating opportunities, while females may evolve mechanisms to resist or select against unwanted mating attempts. In some cases, sexual conflict can result in the evolution of extreme traits, such as the exaggerated ornaments and weapons seen in some species of animals.
Sexual conflict is not limited to physical traits and behaviors but can also occur at the genetic level. For example, genes that promote early maturation in males may be beneficial for maximizing mating opportunities but can be harmful to female fitness. As a result, there may be selection pressures to evolve genetic mechanisms that allow females to avoid or counteract these effects.