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Inbreeding affects female preference for symmetry in computer-animated sticklebacks
Dominique Mazzi1, Reto Künzler, Carlo R Largiadèr
1Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Zoology, University of Bern, CH-3032 Hinterkappelen, Switzerland. domazzi@cc.jyu.fi
Behavior Genetics
|April 15, 2004
Summary
Female sticklebacks use symmetry in male traits to choose mates. Inbred females, potentially of lower quality, showed a stronger preference for symmetric males, suggesting choosiness varies with female quality.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Animal behavior
- Sexual selection
Background:
- Fluctuating asymmetries (FAs) are minor developmental deviations from perfect symmetry in bilateral traits.
- FAs can indicate an individual's inability to cope with developmental stress.
- Symmetry in secondary sexual characters may signal male quality, influencing female mate choice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if female three-spined sticklebacks use pelvic spine symmetry as a mate choice cue.
- To determine if inbreeding affects female preference for male symmetry.
Main Methods:
- Presented female three-spined sticklebacks (inbred and outbred) with computer-animated male models.
- Models differed solely in the symmetry of their pelvic spines.
- Recorded female preference between symmetric and asymmetric models.
Main Results:
- Inbred females showed a significantly stronger preference for the symmetric male model compared to outbred females.
- This suggests that female quality influences the degree of choosiness in mate selection.
Conclusions:
- Female three-spined sticklebacks utilize male pelvic spine symmetry as a mate choice criterion.
- Females of lower perceived quality (inbred) may be more selective, seeking higher benefits from discrimination.