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Frequency-dependent physiological trade-offs between competing colour morphs
journal contribution
posted on 2007-10-22, 00:00 authored by S Pryke, Lee AstheimerLee Astheimer, William Buttemer, S GriffithEvolutionary theory suggests that alternative colour morphs (i.e. genetically controlled phenotypes) may derive similar fitness under frequency-dependent selection. Here we experimentally demonstrate opposing effects of frequency-dependent social environments on plasma hormone levels (testosterone and corticosterone) and immune function between red- and black-headed male morphs of the Gouldian finch (Erythrura gouldiae). Red-headed males are highly sensitive to changes in the social environment, especially towards the relative density of their own aggressive morph, exhibiting high stress responses and immunosuppression in socially competitive environments. In contrast, the non-aggressive black-headed males follow a more passive strategy that appears to buffer them against social stresses. The differential effect of hormones on aggressive behaviour and immune performance reinforces the contrasting behavioural strategies employed by these colour morphs, and highlights the importance of the social environment in determining the individual basis of behavioural and physiological responses.
History
Journal
Biology letterVolume
3Issue
5Pagination
494 - 497Publisher
Royal Society PublishingLocation
London, EnglandPublisher DOI
ISSN
1744-9561eISSN
1744-957XLanguage
engNotes
Published online 3 July 2007Publication classification
C1.1 Refereed article in a scholarly journalCopyright notice
2007, The Royal SocietyUsage metrics
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