1 research outputs found
Temporal variation of heterozygosity-based assortative mating and related benefits in a lesser kestrel population
9 pages, figures, and tables statistics.Heterozygosity as a target of mate choice has received much attention in
recent years and there is growing evidence supporting its role in the evolution
of mate preferences. In this study we analyse mating patterns in relation to
heterozygosity in a lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni) population intensively
monitored over six study years (2002â2007). The magnitude of heterozygosity-
based assortative mating varied over time, being particularly patent in the
last study years (2006, 2007). We have found evidence that this mating
pattern entails both direct and indirect-genetic benefits. Clutch size increased
with female heterozygosity and more heterozygous males raised a higher
number of fledglings particularly in those years when the strength of the
heterozygosity-based assortative mating was markedly higher. In the last study
year, parentâoffspring correlation of heterozygosity was stronger and higher
than the expected if individuals would have randomly mated with respect to
heterozygosity. Overall, our results offer empirical support to the heterozygous
mate hypothesis of sexual selection but suggest that genetic diversity may act
as a temporally variable target for mate choice.Primer sequences for microsatellite Fu1 and Fu2 were
kindly provided by Jon H. Wetton (Forensic Science
Service, UK). Two anonymous referees provided valuable
comments that improved the first version of the
manuscript. We manipulated and banded lesser kestrels
under license from the Spanish institutional authorities
(Environmental Agency of Junta de Comunidades de
Castilla-La Mancha and the Ringing Office of the
Ministry of Environment) and we followed general
ethical guidelines for animal welfare and nature conservation.
This work received financial support from
the projects: CGL2008-0095/BOS (MEC), PAI05-053
(JCCM), and PCI08-0130-3954 (JCCM). The study was
funded by a post-doctoral JAE-Doc (CSIC) contract (to
J.O. and A.M.), a pre-doctoral fellowship from the
Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha â European
Social Fund (to G.C.) and a postdoctoral Juan de la
Cierva Contract (to R.B.).Peer reviewe