Simple settlement decisions explain common dispersal patterns in territorial species.

摘要: Dispersal is one of the least-understood aspects animal behaviour. For example, little known mechanisms that determine how individuals express different dispersal behaviours in circumstances. Uncovering these important for our understanding spatial population dynamics. Using agent-based simulations, we examine simple decision rules generate individual-level plasticity, and this can influence population-scale We model a territorial, monogamous inhabiting completely homogeneous environment. variability therefore emerges solely as result between-individual interactions (competition, settlement, reproduction), which are governed by decision-making algorithms. show complex dynamics, including sex biases strong density dependence, emerge naturally from rule-based behaviours. particularly sensitive to inclusion mate availability criterion settlement: if neither evaluates availability, distances tend decline at low densities, leading Allee effect reduced pairing success. If (females), effects largely avoided, but female-biased generates increasingly male-biased adult ratios densities. Sex eliminated both sexes evaluate growth rates be due survival costs Our models suggest explain several dynamic patterns commonly observed among territorial species. Importantly, absence environmental heterogeneity or variation phenotypes, two conditions often invoked nature. This has implications studies seeking causes wild populations, suggesting could driven social demographic experienced sampled individuals. Further insights gained examining selection operates on life-history circumstances, might interact with other traits. decision-rules used during settlement should priority those wishing understand predict