ISSN:
1573-1561
Keywords:
Interdigital gland
;
Odocoileus virginianus
;
pheromone
;
scent communication
;
semiochemical
;
volatiles
;
white-tailed deer
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract Interdigital secretions were collected from eight male white-tailed deer of various ages. Analysis of volatiles was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with a modified headspace technique. Forty-six volatile compounds were found including alkanes, arenes, aldehydes, ketones, aliphatic acids, esters, pyrroles, furans, and sulfur compounds. Eleven occurred in higher concentrations (P≤0.10) in dominant (≥3.5-year-old) than in subordinate (≥1.5-year-old) animals. Dominant males typically have higher serum testosterone levels, and fatty acids and esters fluctuate with sebum production, which is under hormonal control. Therefore, these compounds may reflect testosterone levels and act as chemical signals indicating the presence of a dominant male. Interdigital volatiles also may act as generalized scent trail markers.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02272407
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