Relatedness and spatial distance modulate intergroup interactions: experimental evidence from a social rodent

摘要: Kin selection theory predicts that individuals should generally behave less aggressively or more amicably towards relatives than nonkin. However, how treat conspecifics depends on genetic relatedness but also the ecological context, which influences benefits and costs of their interactions. In this study, we used microsatellite DNA markers behavioral tests to examine influence kinship proximity social behavior Mongolian gerbils Meriones unguiculatus living in different groups, whether these effects varied with sex season. We recorded duration 4 categories (investigative, neutral, amicable, agonistic) during a 10-min pairwise test. found had significant investigative, amicable behavior, not agonistic behavior. interaction distance between burrow systems (i.e., spatial distance) suggests were restricted by proximity. The effect showed male became intimate same higher females. Furthermore, both female enhanced aggression food-hoarding season, intensity changes was significantly Overall, our results suggest exhibit sexual seasonal patterns, thereby implying context-dependent responses out-group gerbils.