A contact-based social network of lizards is defined by low genetic relatedness among strongly connected individuals

摘要: Social organization is widespread; even largely solitary species must organize themselves to enable contacts with mates and reduce competition conspecifics. Although the forms of social structure can be subtle in species, understanding factors that influence them may important for how different evolved. We investigated genetic relatedness spatial on associations a living Australian scincid lizard, Tiliqua rugosa. derived 46 lizards from analysis genotypes at 15 microsatellite DNA loci, described networks GPS locations all every 10. min 81 days during their main activity period year. found connected male dyads were significantly more related than expected by chance, whereas male-female female-female had lower expected. Among neighbouring male-male dyads, strongest relationships between least related. Explanations this pattern include avoidance inbreeding or direction aggressive behaviour towards less individuals dyads. Observed (inferred through synchronous proximity) generally null models home range overlap, many close neighbours did not make contact. This supports our hypothesis presence deliberate some individuals. suggest discriminate levels neighbours, directing interactions those are highlights differences formed (where form unrelated conspecifics) maintain stable groups structured kinship.