Covering sex allocation, sex determination and operational sex ratios, this multi-author volume provides both a conceptual context and an instruction in methods for many aspects of sex ratio research. Theory, statistical analysis and genetics are each explained and discussed in the first three sections. The remaining chapters each focus on research in one of a wide spectrum of animal, plant and microbial taxa, including sex ratio distorting bacteria in invertebrates, malarial parasites, birds, human and other mammals, giving critical appraisals of such research. Sex Ratios: Concepts and Research Methods is primarily intended for graduate and professional behavioural and evolutionary ecologists in this field, but it will also be useful to biologists building evolutionary models, and researchers analysing data involving proportions or comparisons across phylogenetically related species.

' … this excellent book provides an up-to-date and critical review of the models and data relating to sex ratios. … well structured and demonstrated that a multi-authored book can be cohesive.'

Source: TRENDS in Ecology and Evolution

‘… clearly structured, instructive, generously brimming with examples and contains useful, concise chapter summaries. Evolutionary biologists will find it not only useful but also accessible and engaging.’

Kate Oddie Source: Animal Behaviour

‘Hardy has done an excellent job in editing a book that conveys the continuing excitement in sex ratio research while still, to paraphrase Darwin, leaving some problems for future solution.’

Source: Science

‘… an invaluable manual for any researcher in this field.’

Louise Rowe Source: British Ornithologists’ Union

‘Hardy has done an excellent job in editing a book that conveys the continuing excitement in sex ratio research while still, to paraphrase Darwin, leaving some problems for future solution.'

Source: Science

‘… an excellent volume.’

Source: Ethnology

‘I would recommend anyone interested in the use or evolution of sex ratios theory to read this book. Every academic library should have a copy on their shelves.’

Source: Biologist