Genetic and behavioural evidence of monogamy in a mammal, Kirk's dik-dik (Madoqua kirkii).
Little is known about the mating behaviour of monogamous mammals. Here, we present behavioural and genetic evidence of fidelity in a socially monogamous dwarf antelope, Kirk's dik-dik. DNA microsatellite analysis revealed no evidence of extra-pair paternity (EPP) in dik-diks: mothers' partners matched the paternal genotype in all 12 juveniles tested. One likely reason for the absence of EPP is that males guard their mates closely during oestrus and over-mark all female scent, thereby reducing the likelihood of other males attempting to mate. In addition, males may be limited in their ability to search for extra-pair populations (EPCs) by activities associated with pair-bond maintenance. Year-round, males maintained proximity within pairs, followed their females' activity patterns, and spent approximately 64% of their time with their partners. However, males did attempt to obtain EPCs when the opportunity arose, and genetic monogamy in dik-diks is probably best explained by the behaviour of females: in contrast to many monogamous female birds, female dik-diks do not appear to seek EPC partners. We propose that females avoid extra-pair males because they are unable to mate with them without instigating a potentially dangerous conflict.
Brotherton
P N
PN
Large Animal Research Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge, UK.
Pemberton
J M
JM
Komers
P E
PE
Malarky
G
G
D000818:Animals; D000835:Animals, Wild; D000866:Antelopes / Q000235:genetics* / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D007630:Kenya; D008297:Male; D009276:Namibia; D012621:Seasons; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal; D012919:Social Behavior