Testosterone production ability predicts breeding success and tracks breeding stage in male finches.

摘要: Testosterone (T) is an important mediator of reproductive behaviours and potential target for selection. However, there are few data relating natural variation in T to fitness estimates. Here, we used the GnRH challenge (an injection gonadotropin-releasing hormone which stimulates maximal release), examine how individual differences relate success changes across date breeding stage. We measured pre- post-challenge T, captive male Gouldian finches (Erythrura gouldiae), before after introducing females, Post-challenge females positively predicted success. levels were unrelated date, but strongly related stage; production ability was attenuated incubating males. Prechallenge only date. Our results suggest that selection when males invest heavily parental care they reduce their sensitivity GnRH.