The Genetic Consequences Of Female Mate Choice In Black Horned Capuchin Monkeys (Sapajus nigritus)

Abstract

Previous studies have elucidated female sexual behaviour in black horned capuchin monkeys (Sapajus nigritus). Based on proceptive behaviours, females have a clear alpha male preference. This study aims to understand the genetic consequences of this female preference through the use of microsatellite analysis on 16 loci across 70 individuals from three study groups from the Iguazú National Park, Argentina. This study has five objectives: (1) to determine whether rank can predict paternity, (2) whether a PoA determined expected success is statistically similar to observed success, (3) whether females are confusing paternity enough to prevent infanticide, (4) the utility from using microsatellite markers from a species from a different family, and (5) the utility of using DNA samples that were 5 to 12 years old. It was found that rank predicted paternity, and expected success was statistically similar to observed success. Added to this the alpha males (7 of 12 assigned offspring) were the most successful sires in the group, followed by gammas (3/12) and then deltas (2/12). Females were not confusing paternity enough to prevent infanticide. 16 of the 18 markers successfully amplified, although one was monomorphic, and eight of the remaining 15 loci, had high null allele frequencies. Old DNA samples worked best when a combination of samples and more than four repeats were performed