Fitandfat.pdf (80.82 kB)
Fit and fat from enlarged badges: a field experiment on male sand lizards
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-16, 15:33 authored by Anderholm, S, Olsson, M, Erik WapstraErik Wapstra, Ryberg, KTo investigate the impact of nuptial coloration (the badge) on male fitness in the Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), we conducted a manipulation experiment in a natural population. Males in one group had their badges enlarged by being painted as cheaters and were compared to a control group with respect to mate acquisition, body condition and survival. Badge enlargement did not affect survival, but elevated mate acquisition by almost 400%, and body condition in small males. This increase in condition is likely to stem from greater access to female-associated sites with high food availability.
History
Publication title
Royal Society of London. Proceedings. Series B - Biological SciencesVolume
271Issue
Supplement 4Pagination
S142-S144ISSN
0962-8452Department/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
Royal Soc LondonPlace of publication
6 Carlton House Terrace, London, England, Sw1Y 5AgRepository Status
- Restricted