Unlike many Ploceus weavers, what feature is the primary emphasis for sexual selection in Euplectes species?

Answer

Plumage extravagance, particularly tail feathers

While the entire Ploceidae family is characterized by weaving skill, the genus *Euplectes*, which comprises the Widowbirds and Bishopbirds, shows a significant evolutionary divergence in mating strategies. For these birds, the primary pressure for sexual selection shifts away from architectural complexity in the nest construction toward visual display. Specifically, the breeding males in *Euplectes* exhibit spectacular plumage, most notably featuring elongated black tail feathers. This extravagant ornamentation serves as the main mechanism for attracting females, demonstrating that while they share ancestry with the nest-focused *Ploceus* weavers, their reproductive success relies more heavily on visual spectacle than engineering prowess.

Unlike many Ploceus weavers, what feature is the primary emphasis for sexual selection in Euplectes species?

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