Gender difference in unconditioned and conditioned predator fear responses in Smith's zokors (Eospalax smithii)

摘要: Abstract Risk taking is imperative for the survival and fitness of animals since they constantly face innumerable threats from various sources. Indeed, ability individual to balance between costs benefits options adopt a wise decision critical well-being animal. In current study, we investigated gender differences in risk making male female Smith's zokors (Eospalax smithii), subterranean rodent species, defensive withdrawal apparatus (DWA) under novel, predator conditioned contexts. Under novel context, males showed more exploratory less hiding behavior than females especially during first half testing session. However, contexts, non-significant sexually dimorphic behavioral were observed. Nevertheless, analysis performance each separately across three contexts revealed that strong aversion By contrast, did not significantly vary their responses when exposed cues. Our results suggest are inclined indulge riskier activities while may be regarded as risk-aversive. The findings highlighted functional significance trade-off exploration natural environment such differed how gather process information risky confrontations ultimately elicit significant variations decision-making coping strategies dangerous events.