The effect of social environment on male-male competition in guppies (Poecilia reticulata)

摘要: We examined male-male competition in guppies (Poecilia reticulata) to test for evidence of hierarchy formation and any subsequent effects on male mating success by comparing the interactions pairs males that were siblings life-long tank mates with those unrelated had never met. These first observed absence a female; then female was added gauge initial sexual behaviour. The unfamiliar/unrelated engaged significantly more aggressive such as physical contacts, nipping chasing than familiar/related pairs. Based several previous studies, we suggest familiarity played greater role relatedness differences behaviour observed. Our results that, some circumstances, may have opportunities less males. also indicate adjust their courtship behaviours perceived intensity mates, based number mature rearing tanks. play important guppy system previously thought.