



They then identified three different call variants, and measured female preference for each one (equivalent to choosing a mate). Although call B was the preferred choice over call A, females were significantly more likely to choose the intermediate target A in the presence of the decoy.

This effect was noticeable regardless of whether the decoy call was perceived from a specific spot, or an indiscernible spot. The authors suggest that in socially complex situations such as this one, rational decisions could be time-consuming, potentially resulting in lost mating opportunities or the risk of further exposure to predators.

The results of this study highlight the influence of context when choosing a mate, and have significant implications for scientists' understanding of sexual selection. Further research is required to better understand the role of the "decoy" effect in maximizing fitness.

Meanwhile, because the decoy effect has been exhibited in humans, too, these results in frogs add support to the idea that this irrationality may have deep biological roots.