On the resolution of the lek paradox

Directional female mate choice is expected to deplete additive genetic variation in male traits. This should preclude such trait-based choice from resulting in genetic benefits to offspring, and yet genetic benefits are the explanation for the choice. This evolutionary conundrum is known as the lek paradox. Newly proposed resolutions to this paradox aim to unravel mechanisms that contribute to the persistence of genetic variance in traits under directional female mate choice.