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Optimal level of inbreeding in the common lizard
M Richard1, S Losdat, J Lecomte
1Laboratoire Fonctionnement et Evolution des Systèmes Ecologiques, CNRS UMR 7625, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris, France. mrichard@snv.jussieu.fr
Proceedings. Biological Sciences
|May 8, 2009
Summary
Common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) exhibit dynamic mate choice based on genetic similarity, influenced by age and condition. This suggests varied partner selection strategies within populations, challenging simple inbreeding avoidance theories.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Behavioral Ecology
- Genetics
Background:
- Mate choice is crucial for reproductive success and evolutionary trajectories.
- The role of genetic similarity in mate choice is complex and often context-dependent.
- Dynamic mate choice, where strategies change based on individual and environmental factors, is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate dynamic mate choice in common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) concerning genetic similarity.
- To determine if mate choice patterns are influenced by age, condition, and genetic relatedness.
- To explore the implications of these findings for theories of inbreeding and genetic compatibility.
Main Methods:
- Long-term study of common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) breeding populations under semi-natural conditions.
- Analysis of mate choice patterns in relation to partner genetic similarity, individual age, and body condition.
- Assessment of clutch success in relation to pair-relatedness.
Main Results:
- Mate choice was influenced by genetic similarity, age, and condition, indicating a dynamic process.
- No systematic avoidance of inbreeding was observed.
- Females of intermediate ages showed less preference for genetically similar partners, while younger and older females did, with optimal clutch success at intermediate relatedness.
Conclusions:
- Common lizards display context-dependent mate choice strategies regarding genetic similarity.
- Individual characteristics like age and condition modulate partner selection based on relatedness.
- Findings contribute to understanding optimal inbreeding and inclusive fitness theories in dynamic mating systems.
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