cryptic female choice

a practice in which females mate with several males but “choose” which one’s sperm will fertilize their eggs, concealing these decisions from the males. This practice allows females more choice in mate selection. In studies demonstrating cryptic female choice, it is the sperm that is genetically most compatible that fertilizes the female’s eggs, rather than sperm from the most attractive males.

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Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living

an observer-based measure of the functional status of older adults and individuals with chronic disorders. An individual is rated on the degree of assistance required to perform six basic functions: bathing, dressing, feeding, toileting, transferring, and continence. Baseline measurements provide useful feedback when compared to periodic or subsequent measurements. Also called Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living. [originally developed in 1963 by Sidney Katz (d. 2012), U.S. physician and geriatrician]