Pelage coloration in pinnipeds: functional considerations

摘要: Pinnipeds vary in adult pelage color and pattern ranging from uniform white to black or brown solid coloration subtle spotted bold markings. Moreover, often differs by sex age with neonates having radically different patterning those of adults. We explored the functional significance these patterns 34 species pinniped using comparative phylogenetic analyses. found strong evidence support hypothesis background matching on land because which adults pups have live Arctic regions are subject terrestrial predation. also supporting at sea forage well-lit shallow waters on-shelf dark pinnipeds deep off-shelf. Neonates for lacking predators islands caves where selection crypsis is relaxed. Distinctive markings may be used intraspecific communication. Sexually dichromatic highly polygynous copulate land, suggesting a role male contests access females. Functional differences cetaceans reveal underlying pressures, particular derived pinnipeds' amphibious lifestyle.