Mating ecology of beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) and narwhal (Monodon monoceros) as estimated by reproductive tract metrics

摘要: Narwhal and beluga whales are important species to Arctic ecosystems, including subsistence hunting by Inuit, little is understood about their mating ecology. Reproductive tract metrics vary across in relation strategy, have been used infer tracts from narwhal were collected between 1997 2008 five stocks two the Canadian Arctic. Tract length for males females, relative testes mass males, tusk male measured. We assessed variation species, body size, stock, maturity, season. Significant was found month stock beluga, no significant difference or date of harvest narwhal. Beluga had significantly larger size than narwhal, suggesting they more promiscuous A relationship mass, indicating may be female mate choice. No differences reproductive females. The systems suggested belugas our results mean respond differently climate change.