Extreme polygyny among southern elephant seals on Sea Lion Island, Falkland Islands

摘要: Elephant seals are known from long-term behavioral studies to be highly polygynous and show high variance in reproductive success among males. However, genetic have determined that the level of polygyny varies between closely related northern southern elephant seals. In present study, we investigate paternal at Sea Lion Island seal colony Falkland Islands by using both measures markers. We find average harem holding males is significantly higher than species nearby population Punta Delgada. compare paternity with various indices male mating success, provide a good estimate success. Only 28.2% achieved paternities, these, holders accounted for 89.6%. discuss implications our results context demographic physical environment. Specifically, comparatively resource potential males, differences social behavior, small tidal cycle limiting peripheral access during female departure this may important factors leading Island. Key words: seal, Falklands, microsatellites, Mirounga, paternity, polygyny. [Behav Ecol 15:961–969 (2004)]