Mate choice, reproductive success and inbreeding in white rhinoceros: New insights for conservation management.

摘要: Abstract Improving our sparse knowledge of the mating and reproductive behaviour white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum Burchell, 1817) is essential for effective conservation this iconic species. By combining morphological, physiological habitat data with paternity assignments 104 known mother–offspring pairs collected over a period 13 years, we provide most comprehensive analysis system in We show that while overall was promiscuous, both males females produced more offspring when several partners, half all multiple were monogamous. Additionally, find success varied significantly among territorial two independent sets males. In females, however, variation not larger than expected by random demographic fluctuations. Horn size, testosterone metabolite concentration, territory openness volume preferred food within did seem to influence male or success. Moreover, there no sign inbreeding avoidance: tended mate frequently closely related males, one daughter progeny her father. The lack avoidance, combination skew success, partial monogamy territorial‐based system, jeopardizes already low genetic Considering majority populations are restricted fenced reserves private farms, recommend taking preventive measures aim reduce rhinoceros. A video abstract can be viewed here.