Seminal Fluid Protein Allocation and Male Reproductive Success

SummaryPostcopulatory sexual selection can select for sperm allocation strategies in males 1 and 2, but males should also strategically allocate nonsperm components of the ejaculate 3 and 4, such as seminal fluid proteins (Sfps). Sfps can influence the extent of postcopulatory sexual selection 5, 6 and 7, but little is known of the causes or consequences of quantitative variation in Sfp production and transfer. Using Drosophila melanogaster, we demonstrate that Sfps are strategically allocated to females in response to the potential level of sperm competition. We also show that males who can produce and transfer larger quantities of specific Sfps have a significant competitive advantage. When males were exposed to a competitor male, matings were longer and more of two key Sfps, sex peptide [8] and ovulin [9], were transferred, indicating strategic allocation of Sfps. Males selected for large accessory glands (a major site of Sfp synthesis) produced and transferred significantly more sex peptide, but not more ovulin. Males with large accessory glands also had significantly increased competitive reproductive success. Our results show that quantitative variation in specific Sfps is likely to play an important role in postcopulatory sexual selection and that investment in Sfp production is essential for male fitness in a competitive environment.