Abstract:
Under sexual selection, genitalia typically undergo rapid and divergent evolution across species and competition
between the sexes over control of fertilisation may drive the co-evolution of male and female
sexual traits. Sexual selection can, therefore, influence genitalia in three fundamental but non-mutually
exclusive ways: (1) cryptic female choice, (2) sperm competition and (3) sexual conflict. Golden moles
(Chrysochloridae) are a highly specialised family endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. We examined intraspecific
genital allometry of both male and female subterranean Hottentot golden moles (Amblysomus
hottentotus). Consistent with previous studies in mammals, we found positive allometry and a high coeffi-
cient of variation (CV) for male genitalia. The results for female reproductive tract length of A. hottentotus
contrast with the findings of previous studies as isometry was recorded. Based on the allometric relationships
of both males and females presented here, we suggest that the males do not sequester females
and that in the absence of visual cues the female may use penis size as an indicator of phenotypic quality.
