Simulation of Zahavi's handicap principle

Abstract

We study the plausibility of the handicap principle, using a bit-string model to represent both the genoma and the phenotype of the individuals of a population. We find that the distribution of genoma of population selforganizes due to the natural selection. The phenotype represents some trait of the interaction of individuals with others and with the environment so, it also suffers the pressure of natural selection. The handicap is introduced in sexual selection. At time of reproduction, females compare males according to the phenotype, choosing the one who has a phenotype representing the greatest handicap. Our results show that in this way females are able to see the quality of their possible mates and males have no possibility to cheat due to pressure of natural selection.