Large males dominate: ecology, social organization, and mating system of wild cavies, the ancestors of the guinea pig

摘要: Ecological factors differently affect male and female animals thereby importantly influence their life history reproductive strategies. Caviomorph rodents are found in a wide range of habitats South America different social mating systems have evolved closely related species. This permits to study the impact ecological on evolution. In this study, we investigated organization system wild cavy (Cavia aperea), ancestor domestic guinea pig, its natural habitat Uruguay. Based our laboratory investigations, expected polygynous with large males controlling access females. Results from radiotelemetry direct observations showed that females occupied small stable home ranges which were largely overlapped by one male, resulting harems. some cases, satellite associated harems intermediate-sized roaming occasionally observed site. However, microsatellite analyses revealed offspring exclusively sired same or neighboring harems, moderate degree multiple paternity (13–27%). Thus, C. aperea can be described as contrasts promiscuous for other species cavies magna, Galea musteloides Microcavia australis) living under conditions. Our findings stress strong environmental evolution Caviomorphs resource distribution determines space use and, thereby, ability monopolize