1
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Coombs KR, Weladji RB, Holand Ø, Røed KH. Mismatch between calf paternity and observed copulations between male and female reindeer: Multiple mating in a polygynous ungulate? Curr Zool 2023; 69:377-384. [PMID: 37614915 PMCID: PMC10443607 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoac054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In polygynous systems, such as that exhibited by reindeer Rangifer tarandus, mate choice can be difficult to disentangle from male intrasexual competition because male behavior may constrain female choice. Multiple mating may provide an avenue for female mate choice, though it is difficult to identify using behavioral estimators alone. Molecular techniques address this issue by affording ecologists an opportunity to reassess mating systems from a genetic perspective. We assessed the frequency and possible explanations for multiple mating in reindeer using a genetic approach to determine the success of observed copulations in a semi-domesticated herd in Kaamanen, Finland. Behavioral and genetic data were synthesized with population characteristics over a 7-year period to test the hypothesis that, if present, polyandry in reindeer is driven by sexual harassment from sub-dominant males. We observed multiple mating in 42% of females, with as many as 60% exhibiting multiple mating in certain years. We found no evidence that multiple mating resulted from sexual harassment by sub-dominant males, suggesting that it is likely a deliberate strategy among females. Conversion rate of copulations into paternities varied with male size, with smaller males more likely to experience mismatch than larger males. Female preference for larger males persisted despite the occurrence of multiple mating, possibly suggesting a mechanism for cryptic post-copulatory selection. We suggest further research to delineate the possible influence of cryptic post-copulatory selection and multiple mating to defend against infertility in exhausted males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keenin R Coombs
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. West, Montreal, QC, H4B1R6, Canada
| | - Robert B Weladji
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. West, Montreal, QC, H4B1R6, Canada
| | - Øystein Holand
- Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oluf Thesens vei 6, 1433 Ås, Norway
| | - Knut H Røed
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Veterinærbygningen, Elizabeth Stephansens vei 15, N-1430 Ås, Norway
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2
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Webber QMR, Albery GF, Farine DR, Pinter-Wollman N, Sharma N, Spiegel O, Vander Wal E, Manlove K. Behavioural ecology at the spatial-social interface. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:868-886. [PMID: 36691262 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Spatial and social behaviour are fundamental aspects of an animal's biology, and their social and spatial environments are indelibly linked through mutual causes and shared consequences. We define the 'spatial-social interface' as intersection of social and spatial aspects of individuals' phenotypes and environments. Behavioural variation at the spatial-social interface has implications for ecological and evolutionary processes including pathogen transmission, population dynamics, and the evolution of social systems. We link spatial and social processes through a foundation of shared theory, vocabulary, and methods. We provide examples and future directions for the integration of spatial and social behaviour and environments. We introduce key concepts and approaches that either implicitly or explicitly integrate social and spatial processes, for example, graph theory, density-dependent habitat selection, and niche specialization. Finally, we discuss how movement ecology helps link the spatial-social interface. Our review integrates social and spatial behavioural ecology and identifies testable hypotheses at the spatial-social interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quinn M R Webber
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Gregory F Albery
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, 37th and O Streets, Washington, DC, 20007, USA.,Wissenschaftskolleg zu Berlin, Wallotstraße 19, 14193, Berlin, Germany.,Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 310, 12587, Berlin, Germany
| | - Damien R Farine
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Collective Behavior, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Universitatsstraße 10, 78464, Constance, Germany.,Division of Ecology and Evolution, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, 46 Sullivans Creek Road, Canberra, ACT, 2600, Australia
| | - Noa Pinter-Wollman
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Nitika Sharma
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Orr Spiegel
- School of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Eric Vander Wal
- Department of Biology, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Kezia Manlove
- Department of Wildland Resources and Ecology Center, Utah State University, 5200 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
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3
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Díaz A, Orihuela A, Aguirre V, Clemente N, Pedernera M, Flores-Pérez I, Vázquez R, Ungerfeld R. Ewes prefer subordinate rather than dominant rams as sexual partners. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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4
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Reuland C, Simmons LW, Lüpold S, Fitzpatrick JL. Weapons Evolve Faster Than Sperm in Bovids and Cervids. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051062. [PMID: 33947050 PMCID: PMC8145498 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In polyandrous species, males face reproductive competition both before and after mating. Sexual selection thus shapes the evolution of both pre- and postcopulatory traits, creating competing demands on resource allocation to different reproductive episodes. Traits subject to strong selection exhibit accelerated rates of phenotypic divergence, and examining evolutionary rates may inform us about the relative importance and potential fitness consequences of investing in traits under either pre- or postcopulatory sexual selection. Here, we used a comparative approach to assess evolutionary rates of key competitive traits in two artiodactyl families, bovids (family Bovidae) and cervids (family Cervidae), where male–male competition can occur before and after mating. We quantified and compared evolutionary rates of male weaponry (horns and antlers), body size/mass, testes mass, and sperm morphometrics. We found that weapons evolve faster than sperm dimensions. In contrast, testes and body mass evolve at similar rates. These results suggest strong, but differential, selection on both pre- and postcopulatory traits in bovids and cervids. Furthermore, we documented distinct evolutionary rates among different sperm components, with sperm head and midpiece evolving faster than the flagellum. Finally, we demonstrate that, despite considerable differences in weapon development between bovids and cervids, the overall evolutionary patterns between these families were broadly consistent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charel Reuland
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius väg 18b, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Leigh W. Simmons
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Stefan Lüpold
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - John L. Fitzpatrick
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius väg 18b, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Correspondence:
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5
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Ben Mocha Y. Why do human and non-human species conceal mating? The cooperation maintenance hypothesis. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20201330. [PMID: 32752989 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.1330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable cultural differences, a striking uniformity is argued to exist in human preferences for concealing sexual intercourse from the sensory perception of conspecifics. However, no systematic accounts support this claim, with only limited attempts to understand the selective pressures acting on the evolution of this preference. Here, I combine cross-cultural and cross-species comparative approaches to investigate these topics. First, an analysis of more than 4572 ethnographies from 249 cultures presents systematic evidence that the preference to conceal mating is widespread across cultures. Second, I argue that current anthropological hypotheses do not sufficiently explain why habitual concealment of mating evolved in humans but is only seldom exhibited by other social species. Third, I introduce the cooperation maintenance hypothesis, which postulates that humans, and a specific category of non-human species, conceal matings to prevent sexual arousal in witnesses (proximate explanation). This allows them to simultaneously maintain mating control over their partner(s) and cooperation with group members who are prevented from mating (ultimate explanations). I conclude by presenting a comparative framework and predictions to be tested across species and human cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitzchak Ben Mocha
- Department of Anthropology, Zürich University, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.,Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Seewiesen, Germany.,Department of Collective Behavior, Max Planck Institute for Animal Behavior, Konstanz, Germany
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6
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Bowyer RT, McCullough DR, Rachlow JL, Ciuti S, Whiting JC. Evolution of ungulate mating systems: Integrating social and environmental factors. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:5160-5178. [PMID: 32551090 PMCID: PMC7297761 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ungulates exhibit diverse mating systems that range from monogamous pair territories to highly polygynous leks. We review mating systems and behaviors across ungulates and offer a new approach synthesizing how interacting factors may shape those mating systems. Variability exists in mating systems among and within species of ungulates and likely is affected by predation risk, availability of resources (food and mates), habitat structure, and sociality. Ungulate mating systems may be labile as a consequence of the varying strength of those interacting factors. In addition, degree of polygyny and sexual dimorphism in size are associated with the evolution of mating systems. Neither male-male combat nor paternal care, however, can completely explain differences in sexual size dimorphism for ungulates, a necessary component in understanding the development of some mating systems. Whatever the evolutionary pathway, sexual segregation limits paternal care allowing more intense male-male competition. Selection of habitat structure, because it modifies risk of predation, is a major determinant of sociality for ungulates. Likewise, ruggedness and steepness of terrain limit the types of mating systems that can occur because of limitations in group size and cohesiveness, as well as the ability of males to herd even small groups of females effectively. The quality and defensibility of resources affect mating systems, as does the defensibility of females. Population density of females also may be a critical determinant of the types of mating systems that develop. Size of groups likewise constrains the types of mating tactics that males can employ. Our aim was to use those relationships to create a broad conceptual model that predicts how various environmental and social factors interact to structure mating systems in ungulates. This model provides a useful framework for future tests of the roles of both ecological and social conditions in influencing the social systems of ungulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Terry Bowyer
- Institute of Arctic BiologyUniversity of Alaska FairbanksFairbanksAKUSA
| | - Dale R. McCullough
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy and ManagementUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCAUSA
| | - Janet L. Rachlow
- Department of Fish and Wildlife SciencesUniversity of IdahoMoscowIDUSA
| | - Simone Ciuti
- Laboratory of Wildlife Ecology and BehaviourSchool of Biology and Environmental ScienceUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
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7
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Festa‐Bianchet M, Côté SD, Hamel S, Pelletier F. Long‐term studies of bighorn sheep and mountain goats reveal fitness costs of reproduction. J Anim Ecol 2019; 88:1118-1133. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Festa‐Bianchet
- Département de biologie Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke Québec Canada
- Centre d'études nordiques Québec City Québec Canada
| | - Steeve D. Côté
- Centre d'études nordiques Québec City Québec Canada
- Département de biologie Université Laval Sainte‐Foy Québec Canada
| | - Sandra Hamel
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries, and Economics UiT The Arctic University of Norway Tromsø Norway
| | - Fanie Pelletier
- Département de biologie Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke Québec Canada
- Centre d'études nordiques Québec City Québec Canada
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8
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9
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Picard K, Thomas DW, Festa-Bianchet M, Belleville F, Laneville A. Differences in the thermal conductance of tropical and temperate bovid horns. ECOSCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/11956860.1999.11682515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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10
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Picard K, Festa-Bianchet M, Thomas D. The cost of horniness: Heat loss may counter sexual selection for large horns in temperate bovids. ECOSCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/11956860.1996.11682343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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11
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Douhard M, Festa-Bianchet M, Coltman DW, Pelletier F. Paternal reproductive success drives sex allocation in a wild mammal. Evolution 2016; 70:358-68. [DOI: 10.1111/evo.12860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Douhard
- Département de biologie and Centre d’Études Nordiques; Université de Sherbrooke; 2500 boulevard de l'Université Sherbrooke Québec J1K 2R1 Canada
| | - Marco Festa-Bianchet
- Département de biologie and Centre d’Études Nordiques; Université de Sherbrooke; 2500 boulevard de l'Université Sherbrooke Québec J1K 2R1 Canada
| | - David W. Coltman
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Alberta; Edmonton Alberta T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - Fanie Pelletier
- Département de biologie and Centre d’Études Nordiques; Université de Sherbrooke; 2500 boulevard de l'Université Sherbrooke Québec J1K 2R1 Canada
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12
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Mooring MS, Penedo MCT. Behavioral versus genetic measures of fitness in bison bulls (Bison bison). J Mammal 2014. [DOI: 10.1644/13-mamm-a-209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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13
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Orr TJ, Zuk M. Reproductive delays in mammals: an unexplored avenue for post-copulatory sexual selection. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2014; 89:889-912. [DOI: 10.1111/brv.12085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Revised: 01/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teri J. Orr
- Department of Biology; University of California; Riverside CA 92521 U.S.A
| | - Marlene Zuk
- Ecology, Evolution and Behavior; University of Minnesota; 1987 Upper Buford Circle Saint Paul MN 55108 U.S.A
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14
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Rioux-Paquette E, Festa-Bianchet M, Coltman DW. No inbreeding avoidance in an isolated population of bighorn sheep. Anim Behav 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2010.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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15
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Parga JA. Male Post-Ejaculatory Mounting in the Ring-Tailed Lemur (Lemur catta): A Behavior Solicited by Females? Ethology 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2010.01797.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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16
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Sarasa M, Serrano E, Pérez JM, Soriguer RC, Gonzalez G, Joachim J, Fandos P, Granados JE. Effects of season, age and body condition on allocation to testes mass in Iberian ibex. J Zool (1987) 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2009.00689.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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Willisch CS, Neuhaus P. Alternative Mating Tactics and Their Impact on Survival in Adult Male Alpine Ibex (Capra ibex ibex). J Mammal 2009. [DOI: 10.1644/08-mamm-a-316r1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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18
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MØLLER AP, BIRKHEAD TR. Copulation behaviour in mammals: evidence that sperm competition is widespread. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8312.1989.tb01569.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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19
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Whiting JC, Terry Bowyer R, Flinders JT. Young Bighorn (Ovis canadensis) Males: can they Successfully Woo Females? Ethology 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2007.01442.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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20
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Toïgo C, Gaillard JM, Festa-Bianchet M, Largo E, Michallet J, Maillard D. Sex- and age-specific survival of the highly dimorphic Alpine ibex: evidence for a conservative life-history tactic. J Anim Ecol 2007; 76:679-86. [PMID: 17584373 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2656.2007.01254.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
1. Age-specific survival of 215 males and 117 females of the highly sexually dimorphic Alpine ibex Capra ibex (L.) was assessed from a 21-year capture-mark-recapture (CMR) programme (1983-2004). The study covered two contrasted periods of population performance (high performance from 1983 to 1997 vs. low performance from 1998 onwards). 2. Based on current life-history theories for sexually dimorphic species, we expected that survival should decrease with age in both sexes, female survival should be buffered against environmental variations, male survival should decrease during the low performance period, and adult survival should be lower in males than females during the low performance period. 3. Survival of both sexes was strongly affected by age, with the four age classes (yearling, prime-aged adults of 2-8 years of age, old adults of 8-13 years of age, and senescent adults from 13 years of age onwards) generally reported for large herbivores. 4. Survival of females at all ages, and of yearling and prime-aged males, was buffered against environmental variations and was the same during periods of high and low population performance. The survival of old males decreased in years of low population performance. 5. All marked yearlings (32 females, 56 males) survived to age 2. Survival of prime-aged females (0.996 +/- 0.011) was higher than for other large herbivores, but similarly to other large herbivore species, it declined slowly and regularly with increasing age afterwards. Male survival was 5-15% higher each year than that of males of other large herbivores. Males enjoyed very high survival when prime-aged (0.981 +/- 0.009) and as old adults (high-performance period: 0.965 +/- 0.028, low-performance period: 0.847 +/- 0.032). 6. The very high survival of males, coupled with their prolonged mass gain, suggests a highly conservative reproductive tactic. Male ibex differ from similar-sized herbivores by showing a nearly indeterminate growth in horn size and body mass. By surviving to an advanced age, males may enjoy high reproductive success because of their large size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Toïgo
- Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, 5 allée de Bethléem, Z.I. Mayencin, 38610 Gières, France.
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21
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Risk of sperm competition does not influence copulatory behavior in the promiscuous meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus). J ETHOL 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/s10164-006-0008-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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22
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Festa-Bianchet M, Coulson T, Gaillard JM, Hogg JT, Pelletier F. Stochastic predation events and population persistence in bighorn sheep. Proc Biol Sci 2006; 273:1537-43. [PMID: 16777749 PMCID: PMC1560313 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2006.3467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2005] [Accepted: 12/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have reported temporal changes in the relative importance of density-dependence and environmental stochasticity in affecting population growth rates, but they typically assume that the predominant factor limiting growth remains constant over long periods of time. Stochastic switches in limiting factors that persist for multiple time-steps have received little attention, but most wild populations may periodically experience such switches. Here, we consider the dynamics of three populations of individually marked bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) monitored for 24-28 years. Each population experienced one or two distinct cougar (Puma concolor) predation events leading to population declines. The onset and duration of predation events were stochastic and consistent with predation by specialist individuals. A realistic Markov chain model confirms that predation by specialist cougars can cause extinction of isolated populations. We suggest that such processes may be common. In such cases, predator-prey equilibria may only occur at large geographical and temporal scales, and are unlikely with increasing habitat fragmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Festa-Bianchet
- Université de Sherbrooke Département de biologie Sherbrooke, Québec J1K 2R1, Canada.
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23
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24
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delBarco-Trillo J, Ferkin MH. Male meadow voles respond differently to risk and intensity of sperm competition. Behav Ecol 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/ark001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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25
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Preston BT, Stevenson IR, Wilson K. Soay rams target reproductive activity towards promiscuous females' optimal insemination period. Proc Biol Sci 2003; 270:2073-8. [PMID: 14561297 PMCID: PMC1691477 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2003.2465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Female promiscuity is thought to have resulted in the evolution of male behaviours that confer advantages in the sperm competition that ensues. In mammalian species, males can gain a post-copulatory advantage in this sperm 'raffle' by inseminating females at the optimal time relative to ovulation, leading to the prediction that males should preferentially associate and copulate with females at these times. To the best of our knowledge, we provide the first high-resolution test of this prediction using feral Soay sheep, which have a mating system characterized by male competition for access to highly promiscuous females. We find that competitive males time their mate guarding (and hence copulations) to occur close to the optimal insemination period (OIP), when females are also increasingly likely to 'cooperate' with copulation attempts. Subordinate males practice an alternative mating tactic, where they break the integrity of the consort pair and force copulations on females. The timing of these forced copulations is also targeted towards the OIP. We thus provide quantitative evidence that female promiscuity has resulted in the evolution of reproductive strategies in which males 'load' the sperm raffle by targeting their mating activity towards female OIPs, when the probability of sperm-competition success is at its greatest.
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Affiliation(s)
- B T Preston
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK.
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26
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Pelletier F, Bauman J, Festa-Bianchet M. Fecal testosterone in bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis): behavioural and endocrine correlates. CAN J ZOOL 2003. [DOI: 10.1139/z03-156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasive endocrine techniques allow repeated sampling of the same individual to study causes and consequences of variation in individual behaviour and physiology. In this study, radioimmunoassay was used to measure fecal testosterone and to assess the repeatability of the testosterone assay for bighorn rams (Ovis canadensis). Fecal samples were collected from marked males during the pre-rut and the rut over 2 years. Results were highly repeatable for samples of the same ram within a day (r = 0.93). Fecal testosterone peaked during the pre-rut (when social relationships are established) and then declined from the pre-rut to the rut. For both years of study, fecal testosterone was correlated with social rank (2001: r = 0.73, P < 0.0001; 2002: r = 0.54, P = 0.007) and age (2001: r = 0.65, P = 0.002; 2002: r = 0.53, P = 0.008) of individual rams. When age was accounted for, however, the relationship between social rank and testosterone was no longer significant. Aggressiveness (measured as hourly interaction rate) was weakly correlated with fecal testosterone (r = 0.44, P = 0.039). There was no association between aggressiveness and social rank (r = 0.13, P = 0.591). To our knowledge, this is the first report of an association between testosterone levels and individual social rank in wild ungulates.
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27
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Coltman DW, Festa-Bianchet M, Jorgenson JT, Strobeck C. Age-dependent sexual selection in bighorn rams. Proc Biol Sci 2002; 269:165-72. [PMID: 11798432 PMCID: PMC1690873 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2001.1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 224] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although mating systems and sexual selection have been intensively studied in ungulate model systems, very few studies have combined genetic paternity analysis with individual phenotypic data over several breeding seasons. We used microsatellite paternity analysis to determine the parentage of 83 bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) born between 1995 and 2000 at Ram Mountain, Alberta, Canada. We could assign the paternity of 64 lambs at a high level of statistical confidence (95%). Within each season, the most successful ram sired an average of 35.5% of the lambs with assigned paternity, and a single ram sired 26.1% of all lambs over the six mating seasons. Although a few large-horned, mature (age 8+ years) rams had very high reproductive success, younger rams sired ca. 50% of the lambs. Mixed-effects models indicated that mating success increases as a nonlinear function of age, with horn length increasingly positive in correlation with mating success in older rams. These results indicate that young or small rams possibly achieve mating success through alternative mating tactics that are less dependent on body and weapon size, such as coursing and blocking. Sexual selection is therefore likely to have age-dependent effects on traits such as agility, body and horn size.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Coltman
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK.
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Festa-Bianchet M, Jorgenson JT, Réale D. Early development, adult mass, and reproductive success in bighorn sheep. Behav Ecol 2000. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/11.6.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Coltman DW, Bancroft DR, Robertson A, Smith JA, Clutton-Brock TH, Pemberton JM. Male reproductive success in a promiscuous mammal: behavioural estimates compared with genetic paternity. Mol Ecol 1999; 8:1199-209. [PMID: 10447860 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-294x.1999.00683.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Molecular techniques have enabled behavioural ecologists to reassess mating systems from a genetic perspective. Studies of paternity frequently reveal that mating behaviour does not always reflect parentage, and may bring to light alternative mating tactics. Here we present a comparison of behavioural and genetic measures of male reproductive success in a mammalian mating system in which both sexes are highly promiscuous. Rather than having a stable harem social structure, Soay rams (Ovis aries) on the island of Hirta, St Kilda, UK usually consort with individual oestrous ewes sequentially. Not all matings occur between consort pairs, however, and ewes have been seen to mate with up to 10 different rams on the same day. Using locus-specific polymorphism at five protein and 10 microsatellite DNA loci, we determined paternity for 236 lambs born into three cohorts, and compared paternity with estimates of mating success derived from more than one census of rutting behaviour. The correlation between the number of ewes with which each ram was witnessed in consort and the number of paternities assigned was positive and statistically significant, and rams that were observed in consort with a ewe were 18 times more likely to have sired her offspring than other candidate rams. However, most lambs (73%) were not sired by a ram seen in consort with the oestrous mother. Many juveniles, yearlings and some adult rams were rarely seen in consort with ewes, yet were assigned a significant number of paternities. These results suggest that mating tactics differ between age groups, and that alternative mating strategies among adults that do not involve forming consorts with many females also confer mating success. For these reasons, census-based observations of consort associations between individuals cannot be used to accurately estimate individual male reproductive success in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Coltman
- Institute of Cell, Animal and Population Biology, University of Edinburgh, UK.
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Schwagmeyer PL, Parker GA, Mock DW. Information asymmetries among males: implications for fertilization success in the thirteen-lined ground squirrel. Proc Biol Sci 1998; 265:1861-5. [PMID: 9802243 PMCID: PMC1689372 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.1998.0513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The classical view of mammalian mating competition focuses on combat and threat. By contrast, field studies have revealed that male mating success in some species is more strongly determined by mate location ability than by physical dominance. In thirteen-lined ground squirrels, competition in locating oestrous females is exacerbated by sperm competition that favours the first male to mate with a female. We used a female-removal experiment to identify the distinguishing characteristics of males that were the first at finding and mating with females. Each focal female was observed the day before she entered oestrus; the identities of males that made contact with her and the locations of their interactions were recorded. The following morning the females were temporarily removed, and we monitored male search behaviour in their absence. Males that arrived first were those that had spent more time with the female the previous day relative to their rivals. Time invested the day before, in turn, was highly correlated with male search persistence and familiarity with the female's likely whereabouts. These results demonstrate that differential fertilization success can arise from information asymmetries among males: the advantaged individuals are those that have greater a priori knowledge of the reproductive state and spatial locations of prospective mates than rivals.
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Affiliation(s)
- P L Schwagmeyer
- Department of Zoology, University of Oklahoma, Norman 73019-6121, USA.
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Parker GA, Ball MA, Stockley P, Gage MJ. Sperm competition games: a prospective analysis of risk assessment. Proc Biol Sci 1997; 264:1793-802. [PMID: 9447737 PMCID: PMC1688741 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.1997.0249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We develop the logic of assessment of sperm competition risk by individual males where the mechanism of sperm competition follows a 'loaded raffle' (first and second inseminates of a female have unequal prospects). Male roles (first or second to mate) are determined randomly. In model 1, males have no information about the risk associated with individual females and ejaculation strategy depends only on the probability, q, that females mate twice. Evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS) ejaculate expenditure increases linearly from zero with q, and reduces with increasing inequality between ejaculates, though the direction of the loading (which role is favoured) is unimportant. In model 2, males have perfect information and can identify each of three risk states: females that will (1) mate just once ('no risk'), (2) mate twice but have not yet mated ('future risk'), and (3) mate twice and have already mated ('past risk'). The ESS is to ejaculate minimally with 'no risk' females, and to expand equally with 'past' and 'future' risk females; the direction of the competitive loading is again unimportant. Expenditure again increases with risk, but is now non-zero at extremely low risk. Model 3 examines three cases of partial information where males can identify only one of the three risk states and cannot distinguish between the other two: they therefore have just two information sets or 'contexts'. Expenditure in both contexts typically rises non-linearly from zero with q, but (whatever the loading direction) expenditure is higher in the context with higher risk (e.g. if contexts are 'mated' and 'virgin', males spend more with mated females). However, in highly loaded raffles, sperm expenditure can decrease over part of the range of risk. Also, the direction of the loading now affects expenditure. Biological evidence for the predictions of the models is summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Parker
- Population Biology Research Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK.
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Réale D, Boussès P, Chapuis JL. Female-biased mortality induced by male sexual harassment in a feral sheep population. CAN J ZOOL 1996. [DOI: 10.1139/z96-202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In contrast to most populations of sexually dimorphic ungulates, a 3-year study revealed a tertiary sex ratio (the number of males per female at sexual maturity) strongly biased towards males in the Île Longue feral sheep (Ovis aries) population (Kerguelen subantarctic archipelago). This population presents a main winter lambing season and a secondary summer lambing period. The sex ratios of lambs and lamb carcasses were even. The skewed sex ratio of adults was therefore attributed to shorter longevity of females. We showed that (i) male monthly mortality followed a bimodal distribution with peaks corresponding to the two rutting periods. Male mortality was, however, highest during the winter even though less rutting occurred in this season than in the summer, suggesting that harsher winter conditions enhance the cost of mating competition; (ii) female mortality was related to the rutting activity of males but not to lambing. Female mortality peaked in the summer despite plentiful food resources. This period corresponds to the main rutting peak, suggesting a high survival cost of mating for females. Female mortality due to male harassment was confirmed by direct observations and examination of females injured during rutting periods. This situation may be due to a strongly male-biased operational sex ratio in the population, associated with an inability of males to establish a stable dominance hierarchy within a large flock.
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Roldan ER, Gomendio M, Vitullo AD. The evolution of eutherian spermatozoa and underlying selective forces: female selection and sperm competition. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 1992; 67:551-93. [PMID: 1463811 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-185x.1992.tb01193.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We have examined sperm morphology and dimensions in Eutherian mammals. In most Eutherians, sperm heads are round or oval and spermatozoa have short tails (average sperm length about 65 microns; range = 33-121 microns). Rodents, however, clearly depart from the typical Eutherian pattern in that they show a broad array of head morphs and an extreme range of sperm dimensions (35-250 microns). In order to trace the evolutionary changes that rodent sperm have undergone, we have used phylogenetic relationships based on biogeographical, morphological, chromosomal and genic data, and we have superimposed onto them the information available on sperm traits. Analyses were carried out for five rodent groups on which enough information was available. The evolutionary trends which emerged from these studies have two main points in common: throughout evolution spermatozoa have become enlarged and morphologically more complex, and this process seems to have taken place independently in different lineages. A general model was developed which outlines the different evolutionary pathways that rodent sperm have undergone. The adaptive significance of the increase in head complexity and the elongation of the sperm tail remains obscure. We have integrated information from evolutionary, physiological and behavioural studies to address this issue. We argue that two main selective forces may have favoured these changes: female selection within the reproductive tract and sperm competition. The female tract represents a formidable barrier for spermatozoa and its provides an environment where numerous interactions take place. The extent of these barriers and the complexity of these poorly understood interactions suggest that females may be exercising a strong selection, which may enable them to favour particular types of spermatozoa or ejaculates from particular males. Throughout their evolution males must have evolved adaptations to overcome these barriers, and the conflicting interests of choosy females. Sperm competition is a potent evolutionary force among mammals, which has influenced not only the evolution of sperm numbers but also changes in sperm dimensions. Thus, sperm competition has favoured the elongation of the sperm tail, which has led to the attainment of faster swimming speed, an important factor when sperm from rival males compete to reach the ova first.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Roldan
- Department of Molecular Embryology, AFRC Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics Research, Babraham, Cambridge, UK
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Festa-Bianchet M. The social system of bighorn sheep: grouping patterns, kinship and female dominance rank. Anim Behav 1991. [DOI: 10.1016/s0003-3472(05)80607-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Price EO, Wallach SJ, Dally MR. Effects of sexual stimulation on the sexual performance of rams. Appl Anim Behav Sci 1991. [DOI: 10.1016/0168-1591(91)90138-n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Simmons R. Copulation patterns of African marsh harriers: Evaluating the paternity assurance hypothesis. Anim Behav 1990. [DOI: 10.1016/s0003-3472(05)80181-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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