1
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Brum MDN, Melo GL, Cáceres NC. Ecological evidence of hierarchy and competition in Didelphis aurita females. Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00269-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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2
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Montana L, King WJ, Coulson G, Garant D, Festa-Bianchet M. Large eastern grey kangaroo males are dominant but do not monopolize matings. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-022-03185-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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3
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Strauss ED, DeCasien AR, Galindo G, Hobson EA, Shizuka D, Curley JP. DomArchive: a century of published dominance data. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20200436. [PMID: 35000444 PMCID: PMC8743893 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dominance behaviours have been collected for many groups of animals since 1922 and serve as a foundation for research on social behaviour and social structure. Despite a wealth of data from the last century of research on dominance hierarchies, these data are only rarely used for comparative insight. Here, we aim to facilitate comparative studies of the structure and function of dominance hierarchies by compiling published dominance interaction datasets from the last 100 years of work. This compiled archive includes 436 datasets from 190 studies of 367 unique groups (mean group size 13.8, s.d. = 13.4) of 135 different species, totalling over 243 000 interactions. These data are presented in an R package alongside relevant metadata and a tool for subsetting the archive based on biological or methodological criteria. In this paper, we explain how to use the archive, discuss potential limitations of the data, and reflect on best practices in publishing dominance data based on our experience in assembling this dataset. This archive will serve as an important resource for future comparative studies and will promote the development of general unifying theories of dominance in behavioural ecology that can be grounded in testing with empirical data. This article is part of the theme issue 'The centennial of the pecking order: current state and future prospects for the study of dominance hierarchies'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli D. Strauss
- Department of Collective Behavior, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588-0118 USA
| | - Alex R. DeCasien
- Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, New York, NY, USA
- Section on Developmental Neurogenomics, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MA, USA
| | - Gabriela Galindo
- Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Hobson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Daizaburo Shizuka
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588-0118 USA
| | - James P. Curley
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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4
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Genetic Structure and Gene Flow in Eastern Grey Kangaroos in an Isolated Conservation Reserve. DIVERSITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/d13110570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dispersal is a key process for population persistence, particularly in fragmented landscapes. Connectivity between habitat fragments can be easily estimated by quantifying gene flow among subpopulations. However, the focus in ecological research has been on endangered species, typically excluding species that are not of current conservation concern. Consequently, our current understanding of the behaviour and persistence of many species is incomplete. A case in point is the eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), an Australian herbivore that is subjected to considerable harvesting and population control efforts. In this study, we used non-invasive genetic sampling of eastern grey kangaroos within and outside of the Mourachan Conservation Property to assess functional connectivity. In total, we genotyped 232 samples collected from 17 locations at 20 microsatellite loci. The clustering algorithm indicated the presence of two clusters, with some overlap between the groups within and outside of the reserve. This genetic assessment should be repeated in 10–15 years to observe changes in population structure and gene flow over time, monitoring the potential impact of the planned exclusion fencing around the reserve.
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5
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Dominance hierarchy and social network in a captive group of white-lipped peccary males: what happens after the alpha male leaves? Acta Ethol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-021-00386-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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6
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Warburton NM, Prideaux GJ. The skeleton of Congruus kitcheneri, a semiarboreal kangaroo from the Pleistocene of southern Australia. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:202216. [PMID: 33959368 PMCID: PMC8074921 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.202216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The macropodine kangaroo, Wallabia kitcheneri, was first described in 1989 from a Pleistocene deposit within Mammoth Cave, southwestern Australia, on the basis of a few partial dentaries and maxilla fragments. Here, we recognize W. kitcheneri within the Pleistocene assemblages of the Thylacoleo Caves, south-central Australia, where it is represented by several cranial specimens and two near-complete skeletons, a probable male and female. We reallocate this species to the hitherto monotypic genus Congruus. Congruus kitcheneri differs from all other macropodid species by having a highly unusual pocket within the wall of the nasal cavity. It is distinguished from C. congruus by having a longer, narrower rostrum, a taller occiput and a deeper jugal. Congruus is closest to Protemnodon in overall cranial morphology but is smaller and less robust. In most postcranial attributes, Congruus also resembles Protemnodon, including general limb robustness and the atypical ratio of 14 thoracic to five lumbar vertebrae. It is distinguished by the high mobility of its glenohumeral joints, the development of muscle attachment sites for strong adduction and mobility of the forelimb, and large, robust manual and pedal digits with strongly recurved distal phalanges. These adaptations resemble those of tree-kangaroos more than ground-dwelling macropodines. We interpret this to imply that C. kitcheneri was semiarboreal, with a propensity to climb and move slowly through trees. This is the first evidence for the secondary adoption of a climbing habit within crown macropodines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M. Warburton
- Centre for Climate-Impacted Terrestrial Ecosystems, Harry Butler Research Institute, Murdoch University, Australia
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Western Australian Museum, Kew Street, Welshpool, WA, Australia
| | - Gavin J. Prideaux
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia 5042, Australia
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7
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Female fertile phase synchrony, and male mating and reproductive skew, in the crested macaque. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4251. [PMID: 33608592 PMCID: PMC7896048 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81163-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
High social status is the primary determinant of reproductive success among group-living male mammals. Primates living in multimale-multifemale groups show the greatest variation in the strength of this link, with marked variation in reproductive skew by male dominance among species, dependent on the degree of female fertile phase synchrony, and the number of competing males. Here, we present data on two groups of wild crested macaques (Macaca nigra), living in the Tangkoko Reserve, Sulawesi, Indonesia. We investigated male monopolization of fertile females in 31 cycles of 19 females, and genetic paternity of 14 offspring conceived during the study period. We show that female fertile phase synchrony was low, that females had few mating partners in their fertile phase, and that dominant males monopolized a high proportion of consortships and matings, resulting in marked and steep mating and reproductive skew. We conclude that female cycle asynchrony provides the opportunity for strong direct male-male competition in crested macaques, resulting in monopolization of females by dominant males, consistent with their marked sexual dimorphism. Our study provides a test of the underlying factors that determine the relative occurrence and strength of different mechanisms of sexual selection, and the phenotypes that evolve as a result.
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8
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Brandimarti ME, Gray R, Hilton ZJ, Keeley T, Murray ‘KP, Herbert CA. The effect of testosterone suppression on health and parasite burden in male eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus). AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/am21017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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9
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Brandimarti ME, Gray R, Coulson G, Cripps JK, Wilson ME, Death C, Snape M, Wimpenny C, Silva FRO, Miller EJ, Scanes E, Spielman D, Thomas G, Herbert CA. Reference intervals for parameters of health of eastern grey kangaroos Macropus giganteus and management implications across their geographic range. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maquel E. Brandimarti
- M. E. Brandimarti (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4055-6623) ✉ , G. Thomas, C. A. Herbert (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0174-0898), F. R. O. Silva and E. Scanes (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7520-3804), School of Life and
| | - Rachael Gray
- R. Gray and D. Spielman, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The Univ. of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Graeme Coulson
- G. Coulson (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9873-8203), J. K. Cripps (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3049-5510) and M. E. Wilson, School of BioSciences, The Univ. of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. JKC also at: Dept of Environment, Land, Water an
| | - Jemma K. Cripps
- G. Coulson (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9873-8203), J. K. Cripps (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3049-5510) and M. E. Wilson, School of BioSciences, The Univ. of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. JKC also at: Dept of Environment, Land, Water an
| | - Michelle E. Wilson
- G. Coulson (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9873-8203), J. K. Cripps (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3049-5510) and M. E. Wilson, School of BioSciences, The Univ. of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. JKC also at: Dept of Environment, Land, Water an
| | - Clare Death
- C. Death, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The Univ. of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melissa Snape
- M. Snape and C. Wimpenny, Conservation Research, Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, ACT Government, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Claire Wimpenny
- M. Snape and C. Wimpenny, Conservation Research, Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, ACT Government, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Fabiola Rodrigues Oliveira Silva
- M. E. Brandimarti (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4055-6623) ✉ , G. Thomas, C. A. Herbert (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0174-0898), F. R. O. Silva and E. Scanes (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7520-3804), School of Life and
| | - Emily J. Miller
- E. J. Miller, The Univ. of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elliot Scanes
- M. E. Brandimarti (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4055-6623) ✉ , G. Thomas, C. A. Herbert (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0174-0898), F. R. O. Silva and E. Scanes (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7520-3804), School of Life and
| | - Derek Spielman
- R. Gray and D. Spielman, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The Univ. of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Georgia Thomas
- M. E. Brandimarti (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4055-6623) ✉ , G. Thomas, C. A. Herbert (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0174-0898), F. R. O. Silva and E. Scanes (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7520-3804), School of Life and
| | - Catherine A. Herbert
- M. E. Brandimarti (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4055-6623) ✉ , G. Thomas, C. A. Herbert (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0174-0898), F. R. O. Silva and E. Scanes (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7520-3804), School of Life and
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10
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Montana L, Rousseu F, Garant D, Festa-Bianchet M. Siring success in kangaroos: size matters for those in the right place at the right time. Behav Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/araa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In polygynous species, male reproductive success is predicted to be monopolized by a few dominant males. This prediction is often not supported, suggesting that ecological and alternative mating tactics influence siring success. The spatiotemporal distribution of individuals and the number of males competing for each receptive female are often overlooked because they are difficult to monitor in wild animals. We examined how spatial overlap of female–male pairs, the time spent by a male on the breeding site, number of competitors, and morphological traits influence siring probability in eastern gray kangaroos (Macropus giganteus). We compared home range overlap for 12 208 dam–male pairs and 295 known dam–sire pairs to define local competitive groups and to estimate every male’s opportunity to sire the young of each female. We compared models considering morphological traits relative to the entire population or to local competitive groups. Including local competition improved model performance because it estimated the intensity of competition and compared each male’s morphological traits to those of its competitive group. Regardless of size, males can increase their probability to sire a young by increasing their mating opportunity relative to the mother. We underline the importance of considering spatial structure to assess the intensity of competition in species where males cannot equally access all females in a population. The estimation of mating opportunity and intensity of local competition improves our understanding of how morphological traits affect siring success when each mating event involves a different set of competing males, a characteristic of most wild species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Montana
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Boulevard de l’Université, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - François Rousseu
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Boulevard de l’Université, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Centre d’étude de la forêt, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Boulevard de l’Université, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Dany Garant
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Boulevard de l’Université, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Marco Festa-Bianchet
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Boulevard de l’Université, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
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11
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Wiens JJ, Tuschhoff E. Songs versus colours versus horns: what explains the diversity of sexually selected traits? Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:847-864. [PMID: 32092241 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Papers on sexual selection often highlight the incredible diversity of sexually selected traits across animals. Yet, few studies have tried to explain why this diversity evolved. Animals use many different types of traits to attract mates and outcompete rivals, including colours, songs, and horns, but it remains unclear why, for example, some taxa have songs, others have colours, and others horns. Here, we first conduct a systematic survey of the basic diversity and distribution of different types of sexually selected signals and weapons across the animal Tree of Life. Based on this survey, we describe seven major patterns in trait diversity and distributions. We then discuss 10 unanswered questions raised by these patterns, and how they might be addressed. One major pattern is that most types of sexually selected signals and weapons are apparently absent from most animal phyla (88%), in contrast to the conventional wisdom that a diversity of sexually selected traits is present across animals. Furthermore, most trait diversity is clustered in Arthropoda and Chordata, but only within certain clades. Within these clades, many different types of traits have evolved, and many types appear to have evolved repeatedly. By contrast, other major arthropod and chordate clades appear to lack all or most trait types, and similar patterns are repeated at smaller phylogenetic scales (e.g. within insects). Although most research on sexual selection focuses on female choice, we find similar numbers of traits (among sampled species) are involved in male contests (44%) and female choice (55%). Overall, these patterns are largely unexplained and unexplored, as are many other fundamental questions about the evolution of these traits. We suggest that understanding the diversity of sexually selected traits may require a shift towards macroevolutionary studies at relatively deep timescales (e.g. tens to hundreds of millions of years ago).
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Wiens
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0088, U.S.A
| | - E Tuschhoff
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0088, U.S.A
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12
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Potter S, Neaves LE, Lethbridge M, Eldridge MDB. Understanding Historical Demographic Processes to Inform Contemporary Conservation of an Arid zone Specialist: The Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallaby. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E154. [PMID: 32023869 PMCID: PMC7073556 DOI: 10.3390/genes11020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Little genetic research has been undertaken on mammals across the vast expanse of the arid biome in Australia, despite continuing species decline and need for conservation management. Here, we evaluate the contemporary and historical genetic connectivity of the yellow-footed rock-wallaby, Petrogalexanthopusxanthopus, a threatened macropodid which inhabits rocky outcrops across the disconnected mountain range systems of the southern arid biome. We use 17 microsatellite loci together with mitochondrial control region data to determine the genetic diversity of populations and the evolutionary processes shaping contemporary population dynamics on which to base conservation recommendations. Our results indicate the highly fragmented populations have reduced diversity and limited contemporary gene flow, with most populations having been through population bottlenecks. Despite limited contemporary gene flow, the phylogeographic relationships of the mitochondrial control region indicate a lack of structure and suggests greater historical connectivity. This is an emerging outcome for mammals across this arid region. On the basis of our results, we recommend augmentation of populations of P. x.xanthopus, mixing populations from disjunct mountain range systems to reduce the chance of continued diversity loss and inbreeding depression, and therefore maximize the potential for populations to adapt and survive into the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Potter
- Division of Ecology and Evolution, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney 2010, New South Wales, Australia (M.D.B.E.)
| | - Linda E. Neaves
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney 2010, New South Wales, Australia (M.D.B.E.)
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5 LR, UK
| | - Mark Lethbridge
- Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide 5001, Australia;
| | - Mark D. B. Eldridge
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney 2010, New South Wales, Australia (M.D.B.E.)
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13
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Kimock CM, Dubuc C, Brent LJN, Higham JP. Male morphological traits are heritable but do not predict reproductive success in a sexually-dimorphic primate. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19794. [PMID: 31874959 PMCID: PMC6930303 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52633-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual selection favours traits that increase reproductive success via increased competitive ability, attractiveness, or both. Male rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) morphological traits are likely to reflect the effects of multiple sexual selection pressures. Here, we use a quantitative genetic approach to investigate the production and maintenance of variation in male rhesus macaque morphometric traits which may be subject to sexual selection. We collected measurements of body size, canine length, and fat, from 125 male and 21 female free-ranging rhesus macaques on Cayo Santiago. We also collected testis volumes from males. We used a genetic pedigree to calculate trait heritability, to investigate potential trait trade-offs, and to estimate selection gradients. We found that variation in most male morphometric traits was heritable, but found no evidence of trait trade-offs nor that traits predicted reproductive success. Our results suggest that male rhesus macaque morphometric traits are either not under selection, or are under mechanisms of sexual selection that we could not test (e.g. balancing selection). In species subject to complex interacting mechanisms of selection, measures of body size, weaponry, and testis volume may not increase reproductive success via easily-testable mechanisms such as linear directional selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare M Kimock
- Center for the Study of Human Origins, Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Constance Dubuc
- Center for the Study of Human Origins, Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren J N Brent
- Center for Research in Animal Behaviour, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - James P Higham
- Center for the Study of Human Origins, Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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14
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Minkner MMI, Young C, Amici F, McFarland R, Barrett L, Grobler JP, Henzi SP, Widdig A. Assessment of Male Reproductive Skew via Highly Polymorphic STR Markers in Wild Vervet Monkeys, Chlorocebus pygerythrus. J Hered 2019; 109:780-790. [PMID: 30272235 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esy048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive strategies have been well studied in primate species where the ability of males to monopolize reproductive access is high. Less is known about species where males cannot monopolize mating access. Vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) are interesting in this regard as female codominance reduces the potential for male monopolization. Under this condition, we assessed whether male dominance rank still influences male mating and reproductive success, by assigning paternities to infants in a population of wild vervets in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. To determine paternity, we established microsatellite markers from noninvasive fecal samples via cross-species amplification. In addition, we evaluated male mating and reproductive success for 3 groups over 4 mating seasons. We identified 21 highly polymorphic microsatellites (number of alleles = 7.5 ± 3.1 [mean ± SD], observed heterozygosity = 0.691 ± 0.138 [mean ± SD]) and assigned paternity to 94 of 97 sampled infants (96.9%) with high confidence. Matings pooled over 4 seasons were significantly skewed across 3 groups, although skew indices were low (B index = 0.023-0.030) and mating success did not correlate with male dominance. Paternities pooled over 4 seasons were not consistently significantly skewed (B index = 0.005-0.062), with high-ranking males siring more offspring than subordinates only in some seasons. We detected 6 cases of extra-group paternity (6.4%) and 4 cases of natal breeding (4.3%). Our results suggest that alternative reproductive strategies besides priority of access for dominant males are likely to affect paternity success, warranting further investigation into the determinants of paternity among species with limited male monopolization potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam M I Minkner
- Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Talstr, Leipzig, Germany.,Research Group Primate Kin Selection, Department of Primatology, Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz, Leipzig, Germany.,Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystems Research Unit, University of South Africa, Christiaan de Wet Road and Pioneer Avenue, Florida, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Christopher Young
- Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystems Research Unit, University of South Africa, Christiaan de Wet Road and Pioneer Avenue, Florida, Gauteng, South Africa.,Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada.,Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Federica Amici
- Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Talstr, Leipzig, Germany.,Research Group Primate Kin Selection, Department of Primatology, Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Richard McFarland
- Department of Anthropology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Louise Barrett
- Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystems Research Unit, University of South Africa, Christiaan de Wet Road and Pioneer Avenue, Florida, Gauteng, South Africa.,Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - J Paul Grobler
- and Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - S Peter Henzi
- Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystems Research Unit, University of South Africa, Christiaan de Wet Road and Pioneer Avenue, Florida, Gauteng, South Africa.,Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Anja Widdig
- Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Leipzig University, Talstr, Leipzig, Germany.,Research Group Primate Kin Selection, Department of Primatology, Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz, Leipzig, Germany
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15
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Wright E, Galbany J, McFarlin SC, Ndayishimiye E, Stoinski TS, Robbins MM. Male body size, dominance rank and strategic use of aggression in a group-living mammal. Anim Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2019.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Green-Barber JM, Old JM. The genetic relatedness of a peri-urban population of eastern grey kangaroos. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:856. [PMID: 30514393 PMCID: PMC6280538 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3969-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The genetic diversity of an eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus) population surrounded by landscape barriers was examined. DNA was extracted from tissue samples from 22 road-killed kangaroos, and blood samples from four live captured kangaroos. Amplified loci were used to determine relatedness between individual kangaroos. The level of relatedness and location of road-killed kangaroos were compared to evaluate spatial autocorrelation. Results The expected and observed heterozygosity confirmed the loci were polymorphic and highly informative for use in this population. One pair of kangaroos were identified to be full siblings, and a high proportion were identified as half siblings. Six positive parentage assignments were detected. No correlation between relatedness and crossing site was detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai M Green-Barber
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Hawkesbury, Locked bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
| | - Julie M Old
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Hawkesbury, Locked bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
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Martin ML, Bateman PW, Auckland CH, Miller DW, Warburton NM, Barnes AL, Fleming PA. Is there evidence for a trade-off between sperm competition traits and forelimb musculature in the western grey kangaroo? Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blx151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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18
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Toni P. Combat leads to intraspecific killing in eastern grey kangaroos. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/am16057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Males engaging in same-sex competition can assess the strength of an opponent by means of behavioural display in order to avoid escalated interactions. There is no published record of male–male fighting with lethal consequences in eastern grey kangaroos, Macropus giganteus. The combat between two males reported here had a fatal outcome.
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Quesnel L, MacKay A, Forsyth DM, Nicholas KR, Festa-Bianchet M. Size, season and offspring sex affect milk composition and juvenile survival in wild kangaroos. J Zool (1987) 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Quesnel
- Département de biologie; Université de Sherbrooke; Sherbrooke QC Canada
| | - A. MacKay
- Département de biologie; Université de Sherbrooke; Sherbrooke QC Canada
| | - D. M. Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit; New South Wales Department of Primary Industries; Orange NSW Australia
- School of BioSciences; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - K. R. Nicholas
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - M. Festa-Bianchet
- Département de biologie; Université de Sherbrooke; Sherbrooke QC Canada
- School of BioSciences; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
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Eldridge MDB, Miller EJ, Neaves LE, Zenger KR, Herbert CA. Extensive genetic differentiation detected within a model marsupial, the tammar wallaby (Notamacropus eugenii). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172777. [PMID: 28257440 PMCID: PMC5336229 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The tammar wallaby (Notamacropus eugenii) is one of the most intensively studied of all macropodids and was the first Australasian marsupial to have its genome sequenced. However, comparatively little is known about genetic diversity and differentiation amongst the morphologically distinct allopatric populations of tammar wallabies found in Western (WA) and South Australia (SA). Here we compare autosomal and Y-linked microsatellite genotypes, as well as sequence data (~600 bp) from the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region (CR) in tammar wallabies from across its distribution. Levels of diversity at autosomal microsatellite loci were typically high in the WA mainland and Kangaroo Island (SA) populations (A = 8.9-10.6; He = 0.77-0.78) but significantly reduced in other endemic island populations (A = 3.8-4.1; He = 0.41-0.48). Autosomal and Y-linked microsatellite loci revealed a pattern of significant differentiation amongst populations, especially between SA and WA. The Kangaroo Island and introduced New Zealand population showed limited differentiation. Multiple divergent mtDNA CR haplotypes were identified within both SA and WA populations. The CR haplotypes of tammar wallabies from SA and WA show reciprocal monophyly and are highly divergent (14.5%), with levels of sequence divergence more typical of different species. Within WA tammar wallabies, island populations each have unique clusters of highly related CR haplotypes and each is most closely related to different WA mainland haplotypes. Y-linked microsatellite haplotypes show a similar pattern of divergence although levels of diversity are lower. In light of these differences, we suggest that two subspecies of tammar wallaby be recognized; Notamacropus eugenii eugenii in SA and N. eugenii derbianus in WA. The extensive neutral genetic diversity and inter-population differentiation identified within tammar wallabies should further increase the species value and usefulness as a model organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. B. Eldridge
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Emily J. Miller
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Linda E. Neaves
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kyall R. Zenger
- College of Science and Engineering and Centre of Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Catherine A. Herbert
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Neaves LE, Roberts MW, Herbert CA, Eldridge MDB. Limited sex bias in the fine-scale spatial genetic structure of the eastern grey kangaroo and its relationship to habitat. AUST J ZOOL 2017. [DOI: 10.1071/zo16051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Animals exhibit a range of dispersal strategies that impact on the organisation of individuals and can be influenced by both the environment and population demography. We examined the fine-scale spatial genetic structure and patterns of relatedness in 139 adult eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) to test predictions of male-biased dispersal and female philopatry in comparison with previous studies in different environments in the species’ distributions. We found evidence of limited differences between the sexes, with little spatial genetic structure in both males and females. The levels of relatedness among females in close proximity were not indicative of close relatives (e.g. mother–daughter) and there was no evidence of matrilineal structure. Among males, there was little evidence of genetic structure. Although our results are, in general, consistent with those of previous studies, we found study-specific differences in the extent of genetic structure that appear to be related to differences in environmental and demographic conditions across the distribution. This highlights the need for additional research focussing on populations from a range of environmental conditions.
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22
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Faster reproductive rates trade off against offspring growth in wild chimpanzees. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:7780-5. [PMID: 27354523 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1522168113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Life history theory predicts a trade-off between offspring quality and quantity. Among large-bodied mammals, prolonged lactation and infant dependence suggest particularly strong potential for a quality-quantity trade-off to exist. Humans are one of the only such species to have been examined, providing mixed evidence under a peculiar set of circumstances, including extensive nutritional provisioning by nonmothers and extrasomatic wealth transmission. Here, we examine trade-offs between reproductive rate and one aspect of offspring quality (body size) in wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii), a species with long periods of infant dependence and little direct provisioning. Juvenile lean body mass, estimated using urinary creatinine excretion, was positively associated with the interval to the next sibling's birth. These effects persisted into adolescence and were not moderated by maternal identity. Maternal depletion could not explain poor offspring growth, as older mothers had larger offspring, and low maternal energy balance during lactation predicted larger, not smaller, juvenile size. Instead, our data suggest that offspring growth suffers when mothers wean early to invest in new reproductive efforts. These findings indicate that chimpanzee mothers with the resources to do so prioritize production of new offspring over prolonged investment in current offspring.
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Rioux-Paquette E, Garant D, Martin AM, Coulson G, Festa-Bianchet M. Paternity in eastern grey kangaroos: moderate skew despite strong sexual dimorphism. Behav Ecol 2015. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arv052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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King WJ, Garant D, Festa-Bianchet M. Mother-offspring distances reflect sex differences in fine-scale genetic structure of eastern grey kangaroos. Ecol Evol 2015; 5:2084-94. [PMID: 26045958 PMCID: PMC4449761 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Natal dispersal affects life history and population biology and causes gene flow. In mammals, dispersal is usually male-biased so that females tend to be philopatric and surrounded by matrilineal kin, which may lead to preferential associations among female kin. Here we combine genetic analyses and behavioral observations to investigate spatial genetic structure and sex-biased dispersal patterns in a high-density population of mammals showing fission–fusion group dynamics. We studied eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) over 2 years at Wilsons Promontory National Park, Australia, and found weak fine-scale genetic structure among adult females in both years but no structure among adult males. Immature male kangaroos moved away from their mothers at 18–25 months of age, while immature females remained near their mothers until older. A higher proportion of male (34%) than female (6%) subadults and young adults were observed to disperse, although median distances of detected dispersals were similar for both sexes. Adult females had overlapping ranges that were far wider than the maximum extent of spatial genetic structure found. Female kangaroos, although weakly philopatric, mostly encounter nonrelatives in fission–fusion groups at high density, and therefore kinship is unlikely to strongly affect sociality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy J King
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia ; Biology Department, Bishop's University 2600 College St., Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1M 1Z7, Canada
| | - Dany Garant
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke 2500 boul. de l'Université, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Marco Festa-Bianchet
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke 2500 boul. de l'Université, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1K 2R1, Canada ; School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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25
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Interspecific and geographic variation in the diets of sympatric carnivores: dingoes/wild dogs and red foxes in south-eastern Australia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120975. [PMID: 25790230 PMCID: PMC4366095 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dingoes/wild dogs (Canis dingo/familiaris) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are widespread carnivores in southern Australia and are controlled to reduce predation on domestic livestock and native fauna. We used the occurrence of food items in 5875 dingo/wild dog scats and 11,569 fox scats to evaluate interspecific and geographic differences in the diets of these species within nine regions of Victoria, south-eastern Australia. The nine regions encompass a wide variety of ecosystems. Diet overlap between dingoes/wild dogs and foxes varied among regions, from low to near complete overlap. The diet of foxes was broader than dingoes/wild dogs in all but three regions, with the former usually containing more insects, reptiles and plant material. By contrast, dingoes/wild dogs more regularly consumed larger mammals, supporting the hypothesis that niche partitioning occurs on the basis of mammalian prey size. The key mammalian food items for dingoes/wild dogs across all regions were black wallaby (Wallabia bicolor), brushtail possum species (Trichosurus spp.), common wombat (Vombatus ursinus), sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), cattle (Bos taurus) and European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The key mammalian food items for foxes across all regions were European rabbit, sheep (Ovis aries) and house mouse (Mus musculus). Foxes consumed 6.1 times the number of individuals of threatened Critical Weight Range native mammal species than did dingoes/wild dogs. The occurrence of intraguild predation was asymmetrical; dingoes/wild dogs consumed greater biomass of the smaller fox. The substantial geographic variation in diet indicates that dingoes/wild dogs and foxes alter their diet in accordance with changing food availability. We provide checklists of taxa recorded in the diets of dingoes/wild dogs and foxes as a resource for managers and researchers wishing to understand the potential impacts of policy and management decisions on dingoes/wild dogs, foxes and the food resources they interact with.
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Warburton NM, Bateman PW, Fleming PA. Sexual selection on forelimb muscles of western grey kangaroos (Skippy was clearly a female). Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/bij.12090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M. Warburton
- Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences; Murdoch University; Murdoch; WA; 6150; Australia
| | | | - Patricia Anne Fleming
- Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences; Murdoch University; Murdoch; WA; 6150; Australia
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Habitat connectivity, more than species’ biology, influences genetic differentiation in a habitat specialist, the short-eared rock-wallaby (Petrogale brachyotis). CONSERV GENET 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-012-0342-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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29
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Pope LC, Vernes K, Goldizen AW, Johnson CN. Mating system and local dispersal patterns of an endangered potoroid, the northern bettong (Bettongia tropica). AUST J ZOOL 2012. [DOI: 10.1071/zo12071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The northern bettong (Bettongia tropica) (Potoroidae), is an endangered macropod with a restricted distribution. We combined radio-tracking and trapping data with microsatellite genotypes to infer the mating system and local dispersal patterns of this species, and discuss their relevance to translocations. We defined the mating system as ‘overlap promiscuity’ (sensu Wittenberger 1979), though we cannot rule out serial monogamy. We found significant effects of proximity (average distance between parents = 190 m) and male weight, but not size, on the likelihood of paternity, suggesting that closer, heavier males have greater mating success. The average distance between putative pairs of relatives suggested that most dispersal occurred over short distances, with the distance between ‘related’ females significantly lower than that between related males (0.9 km versus 1.3 km). A spatial autocorrelation analysis showed high female relatedness across distances of up to 435 m, equivalent to half an average home range width. Conversely, male pairs had low relatedness across 0 to 870 m. These results suggested that female young often settle next to their mother, while males avoid nesting within their father’s home range. Both limited natal and ‘mating’ dispersal may have contributed to the strong genetic structure previously reported for this species.
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Frankham GJ, Reed RL, Eldridge MDB, Handasyde KA. The genetic mating system of the long-nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus) with notes on male strategies for securing paternity. AUST J ZOOL 2012. [DOI: 10.1071/zo12064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The potoroids are a small group of cryptic macropodoid marsupials that are difficult to directly monitor in the wild. Consequently, information regarding their social and mating systems is limited. A population of long-nosed potoroos (Potorous tridactylus) on French Island, Victoria, was monitored from June 2005 to August 2010. Tissue samples were collected from 32 (19 ♂, 13 ♀) independent potoroos and 17 pouch young. We aimed to determine the genetic mating system and identify patterns of paternity through genotyping individuals at 10 microsatellite loci. Additionally, we investigated the importance of body mass and site residency as strategies in securing paternity. Twelve of the 17 pouch young sampled were assigned paternity with confidence to five males. Multiple pouch young were sampled from two long-term resident females, one of which had 10 pouch young sired by multiple partners, with some repeat paternity, while the other had three young sired by one male, suggesting that the mating system is not entirely promiscuous. Sires were recorded on site for significantly longer periods than non-sires but were not significantly larger than non-sires at conception. This suggests that sires employ strategies other than direct competition, such as scramble competition, to secure paternity in P. tridactylus.
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Miller EJ, Eldridge MDB, Morris KD, Zenger KR, Herbert CA. Genetic consequences of isolation: island tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii) populations and the conservation of threatened species. CONSERV GENET 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-011-0265-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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BLYTON MICHAELADJ, BANKS SAMC, PEAKALL ROD, LINDENMAYER DAVIDB. Using probability modelling and genetic parentage assignment to test the role of local mate availability in mating system variation. Mol Ecol 2011; 21:572-86. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2011.05252.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Miller EJ, Eldridge MDB, Thomas N, Marlow N, Herbert CA. The genetic mating system, male reproductive success and lack of selection on male traits in the greater bilby. AUST J ZOOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1071/zo09092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis) is the sole remaining species of desert bandicoot on the Australian mainland. The mating system of this species remains poorly understood, due to the bilby’s cryptic nature. We investigated the genetic mating system of the greater bilby in a five-year study of a semi-free-ranging captive population that simulated their wild environment. Morphological traits were examined to determine whether these influenced patterns of male reproductive success and whether selection was acting on them. In any given year more than half the males (59.2 ± 9.3%) failed to sire any offspring. Approximately 70% of sires fathered one offspring, and 30% two or three offspring. Since paternity was not dominated by few males, and given the species’ solitary nature, lack of territoriality and large home ranges, it is likely that males adopt a roving strategy to find receptive females. These results are consistent with an overlap promiscuous mating system. Sires and non-sires could not be distinguished by their morphological traits, and there was no evidence for strong linear or non-linear selection on male traits. These data increase our understanding of bandicoot life-history traits and will assist conservation and management efforts.
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