Retroviruses and sexual size dimorphism in domestic cats (Felis catus L.).

摘要: Hochberg and co-workers have predicted that an increase in host adult mortality due to parasites is balanced by earlier age at first reproduction. In polygynous species we hypothesize such a pattern would lead diverging selection pressure on body size between sexes increased sexual dimorphism. mammals, male considered be important factor for reproductive success. Thus, under the of virulent infection, males should selected rapid growth and/or higher able compete successfully as soon possible with opponents. contrast, same pressure, females lighter or reach maturity earlier. We investigated this hypothesis domestic cat Felis catus. Orange cats greater dimorphism than non-orange cats. are females, orange heavier males. Here, report extent which individuals differ infection prevelance two retroviruses, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) leukaemia (FeLV). FIV thought transmitted almost exclusively through aggressive contacts individuals, whereas FeLV transmission occurs mainly social contacts. The both diseases consistent aggressiveness sexes, significantly more infected FIV, tend less other also reproduction cats, least females. These results suggest microparasitism may played role evolution