1
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Not just for males: flehmen as a tool for detection of reproductive status and individual recognition across sexes in four African equid species. Behav Processes 2022; 203:104773. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2022.104773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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2
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Ghaskadbi P, Nigam P, Habib B. Stranger Danger: Differential response to strangers and neighbors by a social carnivore, the Asiatic wild dog (Cuon alpinus). Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-022-03188-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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3
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Pluháček J, Tučková V, Šárová R, King SRB. Why wait to mark? Possible reasons behind latency from olfactory exploration to overmarking in four African equid species. Anim Cogn 2022; 25:1443-1452. [PMID: 35554766 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-022-01625-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Whereas most studies on overmarking in mammals analysed the rate of overmarking, that those investigate time between exploration of an olfactory stimulus and the response to it remain less common, with inconsistent results. We examined the latency in time between elimination by the sender and sniffing by the receiver, and from sniffing and overmarking, in four captive African equid species to explore differences among species, and among age and sex classes. We investigated these latency time periods in light of three potential hypotheses explaining overmarking behaviour in equids: social bonds, group cohesion, and intrasexual competition. Analysing 1684 events of sniffing and 719 of overmarking among 130 individuals, we found that (i) the time from elimination to overmarking was shorter among female friends and in parent-offspring dyads, proving support to the social bond hypothesis; (ii) intraspecific differences in time periods do not reflect the social organisation of species, thus not supporting the group cohesion hypothesis; (iii) males were more attracted to elimination of conspecifics than females, and female's eliminations were inspected longer, in line with the sexual competition hypothesis and/or reproductive behaviour. In addition, we found that the younger foals came to sniff eliminations faster than older ones, and in larger groups foals devoted longer time to sniffing the elimination before overmarking. We concluded that examination of the elimination could be driven by motivations other than the decision to overmark. Whereas overmarking serves to express bonds to a familiar individual, the latency of overmarking reflects more reproductive interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Pluháček
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, Uhříněves, 10400, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Ostrava Zoo, Michálkovická 2081/197, 71000, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
- Departement of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Chittussiho 10, 71000, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
| | - Vladimíra Tučková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 1760, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Radka Šárová
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, Uhříněves, 10400, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Sarah R B King
- Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Campus Delivery 1499, Fort Collins, USA
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4
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Scauzillo RC, Ferkin MH. Do male meadow voles ( Microtus pennsylvanicus) always prefer and signal to 'popular' females? The role of social information context. Biol Lett 2022; 18:20220017. [PMID: 35291886 PMCID: PMC8923817 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2022.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For males, the behaviour of rival conspecifics can provide vital information about finding reproductively available females, and which have high-quality phenotypes. While valuable, this information represents sperm competition risk and even the potential for rejection by females. Thus, males should show flexibility in signalling behaviours towards females based on social information acquired with emphasis on the context of that information. We examined male meadow vole scent-marking behaviours and preferences for females based on previously obtained social information across different contexts. Social information context resulted in increased scent marking depending on the social odour pairing. Males scent marked more near a female whose odour had associated with three older rivals than one younger rival. But males marked equally toward a female whose odour had associated with three younger rivals and a female whose odour had associated with one older rival. This demonstrates that social odours are not of all equal value and that males can distinguish differences. Males then use these differences to tailor their signalling towards potentially high-quality phenotype females thereby maximizing their reproductive opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C. Scauzillo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Memphis, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38512, USA
| | - Michael H. Ferkin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Memphis, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38512, USA
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5
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Apps P, Claase M, van Mourik E, Lostrom S, Yexley B, Webster H, McNutt JW. A description of a new discovery: African wild dog packs communicate with other packs by posting scent-mark messages at a shared marking site. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-022-03148-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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6
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Scauzillo RC, Ferkin MH. Are male meadow voles (
Microtus pennsylvanicus
) influenced by social odor context with regard to scent marking behaviors? Ethology 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C. Scauzillo
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Memphis Memphis Tennessee USA
| | - Michael H. Ferkin
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Memphis Memphis Tennessee USA
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7
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Garris SS, Pierson LM, Ferkin MH. Meadow voles differentiate between scents of different sources. BEHAVIOUR 2021. [DOI: 10.1163/1568539x-bja10136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Scent marks are an important means of transmitting information between rodents, and they can be produced from several body sources. Previous studies have shown that scents from multiple sources can convey the same information; female meadow voles, for example, have three scent sources that communicate sex. However, possessing three separate sources that convey the same information is likely costly due to the metabolic energy required to produce these signals and the increased chance that eavesdropping individuals may intercept information present in these signals. In this study, we investigated if these scent sources could communicate other information, in addition to scent donor sex, by determining if male meadow voles could distinguish scent marks taken from different sources of a single female scent donor. This was accomplished with a habituation-test method, that allowed us to compare how male meadow voles differently investigate scent from a familiar and novel source of a female scent donor. Male meadow voles could distinguish between faeces and urine scent marks of a female, but could only distinguish mouth from urine and faeces scent marks when first familiarized with mouth scent marks. Our findings suggest that mouth, urine, and faeces scent marks of female meadow voles produce both redundant and distinct information. The overlap in information between scent marks produced from separate sources may be needed to provide social context, which allows receiving individuals to accurately weigh the tradeoffs associated with responding to an olfactory cue. While this overlap in information remains costly, this cost may be minimized by the different fade-out times of scent marks from distinct body sources, which may limit the amount of time information in a scent mark is available to a time period where this information is socially relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S. Garris
- Department of Biological Science, University of Memphis, Ellington Hall, Memphis TN 38152, USA
| | - Lyndsey M. Pierson
- Department of Biological Science, University of Memphis, Ellington Hall, Memphis TN 38152, USA
- Department of Biology, Christian Brothers University, Cooper-Wilson Center, Memphis, TN 38104, USA
| | - Michael H. Ferkin
- Department of Biological Science, University of Memphis, Ellington Hall, Memphis TN 38152, USA
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8
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Kokocińska-Kusiak A, Woszczyło M, Zybala M, Maciocha J, Barłowska K, Dzięcioł M. Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082463. [PMID: 34438920 PMCID: PMC8388720 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory capability, which far exceeds that of humans. Dogs’ sense of smell seems to be the main sense, allowing them to not only gather both current and historical information about their surrounding environment, but also to find the source of the smell, which is crucial for locating food, danger, or partners for reproduction. Dogs can be trained by humans to use their olfactory abilities in a variety of fields, with a detection limit often much lower than that of sophisticated laboratory instruments. The specific anatomical and physiological features of dog olfaction allow humans to achieve outstanding results in the detection of drugs, explosives, and different illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, or infectious disease. This article provides an overview of the anatomical features and physiological mechanisms involved in the process of odor detection and identification, as well as behavioral aspects of canine olfaction and its use in the service of humans in many fields. Abstract Olfaction in dogs is crucial for gathering important information about the environment, recognizing individuals, making decisions, and learning. It is far more specialized and sensitive than humans’ sense of smell. Using the strength of dogs’ sense of smell, humans work with dogs for the recognition of different odors, with a precision far exceeding the analytical capabilities of most modern instruments. Due to their extremely sensitive sense of smell, dogs could be used as modern, super-sensitive mobile area scanners, detecting specific chemical signals in real time in various environments outside the laboratory, and then tracking the odor of dynamic targets to their source, also in crowded places. Recent studies show that dogs can detect not only specific scents of drugs or explosives, but also changes in emotions as well as in human cell metabolism during various illnesses, including COVID-19 infection. Here, we provide an overview of canine olfaction, discussing aspects connected with anatomy, physiology, behavioral aspects of sniffing, and factors influencing the olfactory abilities of the domestic dog (Canis familiaris).
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Kokocińska-Kusiak
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, ul. Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warszawa, Poland; (A.K.-K.); (J.M.)
| | - Martyna Woszczyło
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Plac Grunwaldzki 49, 50-366 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Mikołaj Zybala
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Doctoral School, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, ul. Konarskiego 2, 08-110 Siedlce, Poland;
| | - Julia Maciocha
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, ul. Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warszawa, Poland; (A.K.-K.); (J.M.)
| | - Katarzyna Barłowska
- Department of Biotechnology and Nutrigenomics, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland;
| | - Michał Dzięcioł
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Plac Grunwaldzki 49, 50-366 Wrocław, Poland;
- Correspondence:
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9
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Clark KE, Messler KA, Ferkin MH. Sex differences in olfactory social recognition memory in meadow voles,
Microtus pennsylvanicus. Ethology 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E. Clark
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Memphis Memphis TN USA
| | - Kaitlynn A. Messler
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Memphis Memphis TN USA
- Department of Health Professions University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis TN USA
| | - Michael H. Ferkin
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Memphis Memphis TN USA
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10
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Neighborhood bully: no difference in territorial response toward neighbors or strangers in marmots. Behav Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/araa061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Territorial animals are expected to adjust their response to intruders according to the perceived threat level. One of the factors that drives threat level is the identity of the intruder. The dear enemy phenomenon theory postulates that individuals should respond with lower intensity to neighbors, already possessing a territory, than to strangers that may fight to evict them. In social species, the hierarchical status of the intruder might also mediate this response. Such behavioral adjustments presuppose a capacity to discriminate between individuals posing different threat levels. Here, we tested the behavioral response of Alpine marmots to territorial intrusions in a wild population. We compared both dominant females’ and males’ responses to scents from neighbor and stranger dominant males (dear enemy phenomenon) and to dominant and subordinate stranger males (social status-specific response). In addition, we tested for any covariance between male scents and social status. We showed that female and male dominant marmots do not adjust the intensity of their behavioral responses to whether the intruder’s territory is bordering or not (neighbors or strangers) or to the intruder’s social status, even though dominant and subordinate males are thought to pose different threats and social status is encoded in scents. Thus, we did not find support for the dear enemy phenomenon and conclude instead that, in dominant Alpine marmots, no intruder should enter a foreign territory. Research taking a more holistic approach of the evolution and maintenance of territoriality is required to understand the flexibility of responses to intruders in group-living species.
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11
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Pluháček J, Tučková V, Šárová R, King SRB. Effect of social organisation on interspecific differences in overmarking behaviour of foals in African equids. Anim Cogn 2019; 23:131-140. [DOI: 10.1007/s10071-019-01323-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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12
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Overmarking behaviour of zebra males: no scent masking, but a group cohesion function across three species. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-019-2744-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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13
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Marneweck C, Jürgens A, Shrader AM. The first report of urine overmarking of pro-oestrus female dung by a male white rhino. AFRICAN ZOOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2019.1635911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Marneweck
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - A Jürgens
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Chemical Plant Ecology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - AM Shrader
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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14
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Scent marks of rodents can provide information to conspecifics. Anim Cogn 2019; 22:445-452. [PMID: 30778801 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-019-01250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
For a scent mark to be informative it must provide a reliable, honest signal that allows individuals that detect it to predict fitness tradeoffs if they choose or not choose to respond to it. I argue that scent marks provide a great deal of information about the sender to receivers. The manner in which an animal uses this information to make decisions will depend on the context and manner in which it encounters these scent marks. Receivers can use the information found in the scent marks and odors to locate the donor, learn its identity, determine the donor's phenotype or genotype, and assess whether the scent marks were encountered earlier by conspecifics. For receivers to make potentially informed decisions, when they encounter the scent marks of conspecifics with whom they have had different experiences across a variety of contexts higher level cognitive processing involving procedural memory, episodic memory, autobiographical memory and making judgements of numerical discrimination would be required. Senders should have some insight into the receivers to increase the likelihood that the targets respond appropriately to the scent mark by reducing uncertainty. The sender's state or the current state of the environment and the context will affect when and where the scent marks were deposited. Decisions to deposit scent marks and respond to them must represent a tradeoff in the benefits and costs to the sender and receivers in terms of their fitness and survival. The actual tradeoff should be context dependent and reflect the experience, physiology, and life history constraints affecting the receiver. Calculating these tradeoffs likely involves some cognitive processing and requires some sort of information transfer between the sender and the receiver.
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15
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Test of four hypotheses to explain the function of overmarking in foals of four equid species. Anim Cogn 2019; 22:231-241. [DOI: 10.1007/s10071-019-01239-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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16
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Akrim F, Mahmood T, Max T, Nadeem MS, Qasim S, Andleeb S. Assessment of bias in morphological identification of carnivore scats confirmed with molecular scatology in north-eastern Himalayan region of Pakistan. PeerJ 2018; 6:e5262. [PMID: 30038872 PMCID: PMC6052849 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Scats are often used to study ecological parameters of carnivore species. However, field identification of carnivore scats, based on their morphological characteristics, becomes difficult if many carnivore species are distributed in the same area. We assessed error rates in morphological identification of five sympatric carnivores’ scats in north-eastern Himalayan region of Pakistan during 2013–2017. A sample of 149 scats were subjected to molecular identification using fecal DNA. We used a confusion matrix to assess different types of errors associated with carnivore scat identification. We were able to amplify DNA from 96.6% (n = 144) of scats. Based on field identification of carnivore scats, we had predicted that out of 144 scats: 11 (7.6%) scats were from common leopard, 38 (26.4%) from red fox, 29 (20.1%) from Asiatic jackal, 37 (25.7%) from yellow throated martin, 14 (9.7%) from Asian palm civet and 15 (10.4%) from small Indian civet. However, molecular identification revealed and confirmed nine were scats (6.24%) from common leopard, 40 (27.8 %) from red fox, 21 (14.6%) from Asiatic jackal, 45 (31.25%) from Asian palm civet, 12 (8.3%) scats from small Indian civet, while 11 scats (7.6%) were found from Canis lupus Spp., three (2%) from dog, one (0.7 %) scat sample from porcupine, and two (1.4%) from rhesus monkey. Misidentification rate was highest for Asian palm civet (25.7%), followed by red fox (11.1%) and Asiatic jackal (9.7%) but least for common leopard scats (4.2%). The results specific to our study area concur with previous studies that have recommended that carnivore monitoring programs utilize molecular identification of predator scats. Using only morphological identification of scats can be misleading and may result in wrong management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Akrim
- Department of Wildlife Management, University of Arid Agriculture, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Tariq Mahmood
- Department of Wildlife Management, University of Arid Agriculture, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Tamara Max
- College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | | | - Siddiqa Qasim
- Department of Wildlife Management, University of Arid Agriculture, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Shaista Andleeb
- Department of Wildlife Management, University of Arid Agriculture, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
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Tučková V, Šárová R, Bartošová J, King SRB, Pluháček J. Overmarking by adult females in four equid species: social bonds and group cohesion. J Zool (1987) 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Tučková
- Department of Zoology; Faculty of Science; University of South Bohemia; České Budějovice Czech Republic
| | - R. Šárová
- Department of Ethology; Institute of Animal Science; Praha - Uhříněves Czech Republic
| | - J. Bartošová
- Department of Ethology; Institute of Animal Science; Praha - Uhříněves Czech Republic
| | - S. R. B. King
- Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory; Warner College of Natural Resources; Colorado State University; Fort Collins CO USA
| | - J. Pluháček
- Department of Ethology; Institute of Animal Science; Praha - Uhříněves Czech Republic
- Ostrava Zoo; Ostrava Czech Republic
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18
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Ferkin MH. Odor Communication and Mate Choice in Rodents. BIOLOGY 2018; 7:E13. [PMID: 29370074 PMCID: PMC5872039 DOI: 10.3390/biology7010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This paper details how chemical communication is affected by ecological challenges such as finding mates. I list several conditions that affect the decision to attract mates, the decision to respond to the signals of potential mates and how the response depends on context. These mate-choice decisions and their outcomes will depend on the life history constraints placed on individuals such as their fecundity, sex, lifespan, opportunities to mate in the future and age at senescence. Consequently, the sender's decision to scent mark or self-groom as well as the receiver's choice of response represents a tradeoff between the current costs of the participant's own survival and future reproduction against that of reproducing now. The decision to scent nark and the response to the scent mark of opposite-sex conspecifics should maximize the fitness of the participants in that context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Ferkin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38017, USA.
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19
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20
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Mesopredator behavioral response to olfactory signals of an apex predator. J ETHOL 2017; 35:161-168. [PMID: 28496288 PMCID: PMC5403865 DOI: 10.1007/s10164-016-0504-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Olfactory signals constitute an important mechanism in interspecific interactions, but little is known regarding their role in communication between predator species. We analyzed the behavioral responses of a mesopredator, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), to an olfactory cue (scat) of an apex predator, the lynx (Lynx lynx) in Białowieża Primeval Forest, Poland, using video camera traps. Red fox visited sites with scats more often than expected and the duration of their visits was longer at scat sites than at control sites (no scat added). Vigilant behavior, sniffing and scent marking (including over-marking) occurred more often at scat sites compared to control sites, where foxes mainly passed by. Vigilance was most pronounced during the first days of the recordings. Red fox behavior was also influenced by foxes previously visiting scat sites. They sniffed and scent marked (multiple over-marking) more frequently when the lynx scat had been over-marked previously by red fox. Fox visits to lynx scats may be seen as a trade-off between obtaining information on a potential food source (prey killed by lynx) and the potential risk of predation by an apex predator.
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21
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Greene LK, Grogan KE, Smyth KN, Adams CA, Klager SA, Drea CM. Mix it and fix it: functions of composite olfactory signals in ring-tailed lemurs. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2016; 3:160076. [PMID: 27152222 PMCID: PMC4852645 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.160076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Animals communicating via scent often deposit composite signals that incorporate odorants from multiple sources; however, the function of mixing chemical signals remains understudied. We tested both a 'multiple-messages' and a 'fixative' hypothesis of composite olfactory signalling, which, respectively, posit that mixing scents functions to increase information content or prolong signal longevity. Our subjects-adult, male ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta)-have a complex scent-marking repertoire, involving volatile antebrachial (A) secretions, deposited pure or after being mixed with a squalene-rich paste exuded from brachial (B) glands. Using behavioural bioassays, we examined recipient responses to odorants collected from conspecific strangers. We concurrently presented pure A, pure B and mixed A + B secretions, in fresh or decayed conditions. Lemurs preferentially responded to mixed over pure secretions, their interest increasing and shifting over time, from sniffing and countermarking fresh mixtures, to licking and countermarking decayed mixtures. Substituting synthetic squalene (S)-a well-known fixative-for B secretions did not replicate prior results: B secretions, which contain additional chemicals that probably encode salient information, were preferred over pure S. Whereas support for the 'multiple-messages' hypothesis underscores the unique contribution from each of an animal's various secretions, support for the 'fixative' hypothesis highlights the synergistic benefits of composite signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia K. Greene
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kathleen E. Grogan
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kendra N. Smyth
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christine A. Adams
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Skylar A. Klager
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christine M. Drea
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Author for correspondence: Christine M. Drea e-mail:
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Eppley TM, Ganzhorn JU, Donati G. Latrine behaviour as a multimodal communicatory signal station in wild lemurs: the case of Hapalemur meridionalis. Anim Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Lonsinger RC, Gese EM, Waits LP. Evaluating the reliability of field identification and morphometric classifications for carnivore scats confirmed with genetic analysis. WILDLIFE SOC B 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert C. Lonsinger
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences; University of Idaho; Moscow ID 83844-1136 USA
| | - Eric M. Gese
- United States Department of Agriculture; Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; Wildlife Services, Department of Wildland Resources; Utah State University; Logan UT 84322-5230 USA
| | - Lisette P. Waits
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences; University of Idaho; Moscow ID 83844-1136 USA
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Owen M, Lahti D. Sexual dimorphism and condition dependence in the anal pad of the small Indian mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus). CAN J ZOOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2014-0288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Secondary sexual traits tend to be sexually dimorphic, and theory predicts that such traits should also be condition-dependent in a sex-specific manner. We investigate these phenomena in a field study of the small Indian mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus (Hodgson, 1836); formerly Herpestes javanicus (É. Geoffroy Saint-Hillaire, 1818)), in the first attempt at understanding secondary sexual traits and sexual selection in this species. Small Indian mongooses are solitary and nonterritorial, and they likely depend on chemical (scent) rather than visual or acoustic signals for communication. Additionally, they possess a fleshy projection around their anus, the anal pad, thought to aid in scent-marking. Our results revealed strong male-biased sexual dimorphism in mass, skull and body lengths, canine diameters, and anal pad area. After controlling for the influence of body length, males were 31% heavier and possessed anal pads that were 68% larger than females’. Additionally, anal pad size was positively related to body size in males but not in females and was condition-dependent in males but not in females. Taken together, our findings provide indirect evidence that the anal pad might have evolved, at least in part, via sexual selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.A. Owen
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11367, USA; Graduate Subprogram in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, City University of New York, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11367, USA; Graduate Subprogram in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, City University of New York, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - D.C. Lahti
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11367, USA; Graduate Subprogram in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, City University of New York, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11367, USA; Graduate Subprogram in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, City University of New York, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Ferkin MH. The response of rodents to scent marks: four broad hypotheses. Horm Behav 2015; 68:43-52. [PMID: 25637402 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "Chemosignals and Reproduction". Many terrestrial mammals must be able to distinguish between the myriad of scent marks they encounter in order for them to facilitate or deter direct interactions with their scent donors. I review studies that examine how rodents, mainly meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus), respond when they encounter the scent marks of conspecifics and heterospecifics, and how context, as well as the age and condition of senders and receivers, affect their responses. The review uses four broad hypotheses to discuss the response of rodents to scent marks. The four hypotheses are as follows: 1) Scent marks convey accurate information to the receiver about the sender's state and phenotype and genotype. 2) Scent marks are individually distinct. 3) The response of receivers to scent marks is flexible and would be modulated by the cognitive abilities of receivers. 4) Receivers respond to the information contained or conveyed by the scent mark in a manner that will increase their survival and fitness. The studies cited in this review show that scent marks signal accurate information about the sender's phenotype, genotype, and condition, which receivers use to distinguish among the scent marks of different conspecifics and heterospecifics, and by doing so, receivers tailor their response accordingly to increase their survival and fitness. Thus, the four broad hypotheses may serve as guide to increase our understanding of the response of receivers to scent marks and provide a conceptual framework for future research and the development of additional hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Ferkin
- The University of Memphis, Department of Biological Sciences, Ellington Hall, 3700 Walker Ave, Memphis, TN 38152, USA.
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The economics of scent marking with urine and feces in goitered gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa). MAMMAL RES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-014-0201-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Cross HB, Zedrosser A, Nevin O, Rosell F. Sex Discrimination via Anal Gland Secretion in a Territorial Monogamous Mammal. Ethology 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.12277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah B. Cross
- Department of Environmental and Health Studies Faculty of Arts and Sciences Telemark University College Bø i Telemark Norway
| | - Andreas Zedrosser
- Department of Environmental and Health Studies Faculty of Arts and Sciences Telemark University College Bø i Telemark Norway
- Department of Integrative Biology Institute of Wildlife Biology and Game Management University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Owen Nevin
- CQ University Australia Bryan Jordan Drive Gladstone Qld Australia
| | - Frank Rosell
- Department of Environmental and Health Studies Faculty of Arts and Sciences Telemark University College Bø i Telemark Norway
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Vogt K, Zimmermann F, Kölliker M, Breitenmoser U. Scent-marking behaviour and social dynamics in a wild population of Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx. Behav Processes 2014; 106:98-106. [PMID: 24814909 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2014.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Scent-marking is widespread among mammals and has been observed in many felid species. Although the behaviour is well-described, little is known about its function in wild felid populations. We investigated patterns of scent-marking and its role in intra- and intersexual communication among resident and non-resident Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx by observing interactions among wild lynx at natural marking sites by means of infrared camera traps. Marking activity of resident animals showed a peak during the mating season and was lowest during the time when females gave birth and lactated. Both sexes scent-marked, but male lynx visited marking sites much more often than females and marked relatively more often when visiting a site. Most visits to marking sites were by residents but we also observed scent-marking by non-residents. Juveniles were never observed marking. We found no evidence of lynx regularly renewing scent-marks after a certain 'expiry date' but the presence of a strange scent-mark triggered over-marking. Males responded similarly to the presence of another individual's scent-mark, irrespective of whether it was the top- or the underlying scent-mark in a mixture of scent-marks they encountered. Our results suggest that marking sites could serve as 'chemical bulletin boards', where male lynx advertise their presence and gain information on ownership relationships in a given area. Females placed their urine marks on top of the ones left by resident males, but further studies are needed to explain the functions of over-marking in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Vogt
- KORA, Carnivore Ecology and Wildlife Management, Thunstrasse 31, CH-3074 Muri, Switzerland; Department of Environmental Sciences, Zoology and Evolution, University of Basel, Vesalgasse 1, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Fridolin Zimmermann
- KORA, Carnivore Ecology and Wildlife Management, Thunstrasse 31, CH-3074 Muri, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Kölliker
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Zoology and Evolution, University of Basel, Vesalgasse 1, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Urs Breitenmoser
- KORA, Carnivore Ecology and Wildlife Management, Thunstrasse 31, CH-3074 Muri, Switzerland; Institute of Veterinary Virology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Vlautin CT, Ferkin MH. Female meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus, do not alter their over-marking in response to female conspecifics that were food deprived. Acta Ethol 2013; 17:69-75. [PMID: 24976681 DOI: 10.1007/s10211-013-0161-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Many terrestrial mammals will deposit scent marks and over-marks, the latter being the overlapping scent marks of two conspecifics. Studies have shown that male rodents that are exposed to the overlapping scent marks of two female conspecifics later spend more time investigating the mark of the top-scent female than that of the bottom-scent female. This suggests over-marking is a form of competition and that the top-scent female is more likely than the bottom-scent female to be chosen as a potential mate. Thus, females should over-mark the scents of neighboring females at a rate that will maximize their chances of attracting males. However, meadow voles live in areas that may contain patchy food availability, and residents may differ in their nutritional status. Females in a better nutritional state may be more likely than those in poorer nutritional states to indicate their presence in an area, signal possession of a territory, and to attract mates. Thus, we tested the prediction that female meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus, that were not food deprived would deposit more over-marks than female voles that were food deprived for six hours. Food-deprived female voles and female voles that had continuous access to food deposited a similar number of scent marks and used a similar proportion of those marks as over-marks when they encountered the scent marks of female conspecifics. These findings suggest that the nutritional status of female voles does not affect their ability to signal their presence in an area marked by a female conspecific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian T Vlautin
- University of Memphis, Department of Biological Sciences, (901) 678-3509, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Michael H Ferkin
- University of Memphis, Department of Biological Sciences, (901) 678-3509, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
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Jordan NR, Golabek KA, Apps PJ, Gilfillan GD, McNutt JW. Scent-Mark Identification and Scent-Marking Behaviour in African Wild Dogs (Lycaon pictus). Ethology 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.12105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter J. Apps
- Paul G. Allen Laboratory for Wildlife Chemistry; Botswana Predator Conservation Trust; Maun; Botswana
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Gomes LAP, Mira APP, Barata EN. The role of scent-marking in patchy and highly fragmented populations of the Cabrera vole (Microtus cabrerae Thomas, 1906). Zoolog Sci 2013; 30:248-54. [PMID: 23537234 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.30.248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rodent scent-marking is often used for territorial defence and self-advertisement, and both functions often entail the continuous scent-marking of a large area with high costs. In species with highly-fragmented populations and low density, in which the likelihood of social encounters is low, the costs of continuous scent-marking might exceed the associated fitness benefits; therefore, less intensive scent-marking only to signal presence to the opposite sex may be used. This hypothesis was tested in captivity with the Cabrera vole, a species with highly fragmented and low-density populations. Firstly, to assess the unknown scent-marking behaviour of the Cabrera voles, we conducted an assay wherein voles could scent-mark a clean substrate. Both sexes marked with urine and faeces, but never with anogenital secretions, and the amount of scent-marks was not different between sexes. In the subsequent assay, voles of each sex were given the choice of scent-mark on clean substrates or on substrates previously scent-marked by males or females. Both sexes marked with urine a larger area on substrates pre-marked by the opposite sex than on substrates pre-marked by the same-sex and clean substrates; however, no differences were found in the frequency of fecal boli deposited on the three types of substrate, and no anogenital secretions were found. The clear preference of receivers to scent-mark with urine the substrate pre-marked by the opposite sex strongly suggests that Cabrera voles use urine scent-marking for inter-sexual communication, probably to increase mate-finding likelihood, rather than for territorial defense and/or self-advertisement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alexandre Piteira Gomes
- Grupo de Ecossistemas e Paisagens Mediterrânicas - Instituto de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais Mediterrânicas, Universidade de Évora - Núcleo da Mitra, Apartado 94, 7002-554 Évora, Portugal.
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Hobbs NJ, Finger AA, Ferkin MH. Effects of food availability on proceptivity: A test of the reproduction at all costs and metabolic fuels hypotheses. Behav Processes 2012; 91:192-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2012.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 07/24/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ferkin MH. Odor-related behavior and cognition in meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus (Arvicolidae, Rodentia). FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2011. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.v60.i3.a11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Ferkin
- The University of Memphis, Department of Biological Sciences, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
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Lledo-Ferrer Y, Peláez F, Heymann EW. The Equivocal Relationship Between Territoriality and Scent Marking in Wild Saddleback Tamarins (Saguinus fuscicollis). INT J PRIMATOL 2011; 32:974-991. [PMID: 21892237 PMCID: PMC3139874 DOI: 10.1007/s10764-011-9516-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2010] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Researchers have often assumed that scent marking serves a territorial function in callitrichines, although some controversy exists. To fulfill such a function, scent marks should 1) prevent intrusions, 2) ensure access to feeding resources, 3) enable avoidance of intergroup encounters, or 4) play an important role in the aggressive encounters between groups. We studied 13 saddleback tamarins (Saguinus fuscicollis) belonging to 3 free-ranging groups, which formed mixed-species troops with moustached tamarins (S. mystax) in the Amazonian rain forest of Peru. None of the predictions were confirmed. The tamarins used a border-marking strategy, marking more on the periphery of their territory. However, feeding trees in overlap and encounter areas received more scent marking but were still visited by neighboring groups. Intergroup encounters occurred more often than expected, and scent-marking frequency was not higher during them than when no other group was present. It appears that instead of defending a territory in the classic sense, the tamarins are optimizing signal transmission by depositing their scents where the probability of detection by neighbors is higher. Saddleback tamarins may use shared areas of their home ranges to exchange information with neighboring groups, perhaps regarding reproductive opportunities.
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Jordan NR, Manser MB, Mwanguhya F, Kyabulima S, Rüedi P, Cant MA. Scent marking in wild banded mongooses: 1. Sex-specific scents and overmarking. Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2010.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Ferkin MH, Ferkin DA, Ferkin BD, Vlautin CT. Olfactory experience affects the response of meadow voles to the opposite-sex scent donor of mixed-sex over-marks. Ethology 2010; 116:821-831. [PMID: 20694044 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2010.01795.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Scent marking and over-marking are important forms of communication between the sexes for many terrestrial mammals. Over the course of three experiments, we determined whether the amount of time individuals investigate the scent marks of opposite-sex conspecifics is affected by four days of olfactory experience with those conspecifics. In experiment 1, female meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus, spent more time investigating the scent mark of the novel male conspecific than that of the familiar male donor, whereas male voles spent similar amounts of time investigating the scent mark of the familiar female and a novel female conspecific. In experiment 2, voles were exposed to a mixed-sex over-mark in which subjects did not have four days of olfactory experience with either the top-scent donor or the bottom-scent donor. During the test phase, male and female voles spent more time investigating the scent mark of the opposite-sex conspecific that provided the top-scent mark than that of a novel, opposite-sex conspecific. Male and female voles spent similar amounts of time investigating the scent mark of the bottom-scent donor and that of a novel opposite-sex conspecific. In experiment 3, voles were exposed to a mixed-sex over-mark that contained the scent mark of an opposite-sex conspecific with which they had four days of olfactory experience. During the test phase, male voles spent more time investigating the mark of the familiar, top-scent female than the scent mark of a novel female donor but spent similar amounts of time investigating the mark of the familiar, bottom-scent female and that of a novel female donor. In contrast, female voles spent more time investigating the mark of a novel male donor than that of either the familiar, top-scent male or that of the familiar, bottom-scent male. The sex differences in the responses of voles to scent marks and mixed-sex over-marks are discussed in relation to the natural history and non-monogamous mating system of meadow voles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Ferkin
- The University of Memphis, Department of Biology, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38152 USA
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Vlautin CT, Hobbs NJ, Ferkin MH. Male and Female Meadow Voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus, Differ in Their Responses to Heterospecific/Conspecific Over-Marks. Ethology 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2010.01803.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Ferkin MH. Age affects over-marking of opposite-sex scent marks in meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus. Ethology 2010; 116:24-31. [PMID: 20607141 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.2009.01711.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Models of age-related effects on behavior predict that among short-lived species younger adults are more attractive and attracted to opposite-sex conspecifics than are older adults, whereas the converse is predicted for long-lived species. Although most studies of age-related effects on behavior support these predictions, they are not supported by many studies of scent marking, a behavior used in mate attraction. Over-marking, a form of scent marking, is a tactic used by many terrestrial mammals to convey information about themselves to opposite-sex conspecifics. The present study tested the hypothesis that the age of meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus; a microtine rodent, affects their over- and scent marking behaviors when they encounter the marks of opposite-sex conspecifics. Sex differences existed in the over-marking behavior of adult voles among the three different age groups that were tested. Male voles that were 5-7 mo-old and 10-12 mo-old over-marked a higher proportion of the marks of females than did 2-3 mo-old male voles. Female voles that were 2-3 mo-old, 5-7 mo-old, and 10-12 mo-old over-marked a similar number of marks deposited by male voles. Overall, the data were not consistent with models predicting the behavior of short-lived animals such as rodents when they encounter the opposite sex. The differences in over-marking displayed by older and younger adult male voles may be associated with life history tradeoffs, the likelihood that they will encounter sexually receptive females, and being selected as mates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Ferkin
- The University of Memphis, Department of Biology, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38152 USA, ( )
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Vaughn AA, Delbarco-Trillo J, Ferkin MH. Sperm investment in male meadow voles is affected by the condition of the nearby male conspecifics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 19:1159-1164. [PMID: 19529815 DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arn092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2008] [Revised: 06/13/2008] [Accepted: 06/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Sperm competition occurs when 2 or more males copulate with a particular female during the same reproductive cycle, and their sperm compete to fertilize the female's available eggs. One strategy that male voles use to assess the risk and intensity of sperm competition involves responding to the presence of scent marks of conspecific males found near a sexually receptive female. Previously, we have shown that if a male vole copulated with a female while he was in the presence of the odors of another male he increased his sperm investment relative to his investment if another male's odors were not present. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that males assess differences in the relative quality of competing males and adjust their sperm investment accordingly. We did so by allowing males to copulate when they were exposed to the scent mark of a 24-h food-deprived male (low-quality male) or the scent mark of a male that was not food deprived (high-quality male). The data indicate that male meadow voles did not increase their sperm investment during copulation when exposed to the scent mark of a food-deprived male but did so when they were exposed to the scent mark of a male that was not food deprived. The results support the hypothesis that male voles are able to adjust sperm investment when they encounter the scent marks of males that differ in quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee A Vaughn
- Department of Biology, University of Memphis, Ellington Hall, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
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Gelperin A. Neural Computations with Mammalian Infochemicals. J Chem Ecol 2008; 34:928-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s10886-008-9483-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2007] [Revised: 12/28/2007] [Accepted: 04/23/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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