ISSN:
1573-5133
Keywords:
black nuptial coloration
;
female coloration
;
Gasterosteus aculeatus
;
parental success
;
fish
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract This paper provides the first report of black nuptial coloration on the ventral side for a population of threespine sticklebacks, Gasterosteus aculeatus, in Northern California. Black nuptial coloration was least intense during precourtship. Although the black coloration intensified during courtship, it was not a significant predictor of female choice and, unlike the red throat and blue eyes, was not inversely correlated with the number of female introductions necessary before spawning occurred. Black coloration was the most intense for males who successfully hatched embryos, supporting a parental-defense role late in the cycle. Unsuccessful fathers had more intensely colored red throats, blue eyes, and black bellies during most of the reproductive cycle than successful fathers. Some females in this study developed red coloration on their throat, although none to the intensity or distribution typical of a breeding male.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1007572620424
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