Prey Preferences and Ecological Sexual Dimorphism in Phymata americana Melin

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Abstract
Statistical analysis indicates that in the ambushbug [P. americana (Melin)], natural selection has favored disproportionately enlarged front legs (modified as claws used in capturing prey) in the larger sex.sbd.the females.sbd.with the result that competition for prey between the sexes is reduced. This disproportionate difference is due to sex differences rather than relative-size phenomena. Larger prey are taken in the field more readily by females than by males. In addition to the behavioral division of resources, males cease capturing prey earlier in the season, further reducing competition for food between the sexes.

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