Genetic analysis reveals promiscuity among female cheetahs

Area of Science:

• Conservation Genetics
• Mammalian Reproductive Strategies
• Behavioral Ecology

Background:

• Cheetahs exhibit unique social structures with male coalitions and solitary females.
• Understanding cheetah mating systems is crucial for conservation efforts in fragmented habitats.

Purpose of the Study:

• To infer the mating system of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) in Serengeti National Park using non-invasive genetic sampling.
• To investigate patterns of multiple paternity and female mating fidelity in cheetah populations.

Main Methods:

• Collected 171 non-invasive fecal samples from cheetahs in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
• Genotyped cheetahs at 13 microsatellite loci to determine individual relationships.
• Adapted statistical methods to identify full-sibling clusters within litters and infer paternity.

Main Results:

• High rate of multiple paternity observed: 43% of litters with multiple cubs had more than one father.
• Demonstrated low female fidelity, with evidence of females mating with multiple, unrelated males within an estrus cycle.
• Low paternity assignment rates suggested substantial reproductive contribution from males outside the study area.

Conclusions:

• Cheetah mating system is characterized by high levels of multiple paternity and low female fidelity.
• Female cheetahs may actively select unrelated males for mating.
• Extensive gene flow from surrounding populations is vital for cheetah reproductive success.