Evolution of social “cognitive cell” adaptations in unicellular organisms with complex mating traits

Social intelligences and goal-directed behaviors of mate selection show conservation throughout phylogeny, from unicellular to multicellular life. Some microbes co-evolved somatic ornaments and weapons, behavioral courtship and dominance routines, and decision-making logics that facilitate mate choice, rival deterrence, and monogamy, gating spread of inferior genes from promiscuous unions. Such "cognitive cell" adaptations help microbes direct niche evolution for improved survival.