ISSN:
1432-0762
Keywords:
Key words Fluctuating asymmetry
;
Body size
;
Sperm
;
Spermatophylax
;
Gryllodes sigillatus
;
Mate choice
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in limb size in female decorated field crickets (Gryllodes sigillatus) was associated with a reduction in the size of the spermatophore and the amount of sperm transferred by males and an increase in the time taken to transfer a spermatophore following introduction of a female. There was a weaker negative relationship between limb asymmetry in males and sperm number but no significant relationship between asymmetry in either sex and spermatophylax size. In line with a previous study, female size did not appear to influence spermatophore production or mating decisions by males. The results imply that developmental instability affects both gamete production and mating decisions among males, although the relationships between spermatophore size, sperm number and asymmetry in females are unlikely to be the result of males perceiving differences in female FA.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002650050668
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