Evidence for stronger sexual selection in males than in females using an adapted method of Bateman's classic study of Drosophila melanogaster.

The article investigates Bateman's principles—key concepts in sexual selection theory originally proposed by Angus Bateman in 1948—by adapting his classic experimental approach using Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies). Addressing prior criticisms of Bateman's methodology, the study eliminates viability biases by using genetically marked populations and incorporates direct behavioral observations of mating. Results show that males exhibit significantly greater variance in mating success and reproductive success than females, and males have a steeper Bateman gradient, indicating stronger sexual selection on males. Female remating was limited in the experiment, suggesting further research is needed to clarify female reproductive success in relation to multiple matings. Overall, the findings support Bateman's conclusions that anisogamy underlies sex differences in sexual selection intensity, with males experiencing stronger precopulatory sexual selection in this species.