ISSN:
1432-0762
Keywords:
Key words Mating system
;
Pied flycatcher
;
Ficedula hypoleuca
;
Extra-pair paternity
;
Monogamy
;
Polygyny
;
Reproductive success
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract One of the most interesting aspects of the mating system of pied flycatchers is the regular occurrence of polygyny. Here we present data on the reproductive success of polygynously paired pied flycatcher males compared to monogamous males based on paternity analyses through DNA fingerprinting. Males paired with two females suffered a higher loss in reproductive output per female compared to monogamous males due to (1) a greater proportion of unhatched eggs in their broods, (2) greater nestling mortality and (3) a greater probability of being cuckolded. Nevertheless, the number of fledglings was significantly greater for polygynous males. Based on the number of nestlings that returned for subsequent breeding seasons, however, the reproductive success of monogamous and polygynous males did not differ significantly. These data raise the question as to why males attempt polygyny.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002650000208
