Skip to main content

The evolution of animal genitalia - Menno Schilthuizen

2,913,780 Views

3,257 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Genitals are the fastest-evolving organs in the animal kingdom. But why is this so? And what’s the point of having decorative private parts? Menno Schilthuizen explains how the evolutionary biology of nature's nether regions uncovers a hidden world of seduction, conflict, and rivalry.

What is meant when we say that genitalia are involved in "an evolutionary arms race"?

Login to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Menno Schilthuizen
  • Script Editor Emma Bryce
  • Director Mette Ilene Holmriis
  • Compositor Christen Bach
  • Animator Guille Comin, Laura Büchert Schjödt
  • Sound Designer Weston Fonger
  • Composer Stephen LaRosa
  • Associate Producer Jessica Ruby
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Adrian Dannatt

More from Awesome Nature