Rare extra-pair fertilizations in the semi-colonially breeding linnet Carduelis cannabina |
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| Authors: | Jesper Bønløkke-Pedersen Jan Drachmann Jane Frydenberg Jacobus J Boomsma |
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| Institution: | Department of Ecology and Genetics,
Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Aarhus, Denmark. Present address of J. J. Boomsma: Department of Population Ecology, Zoological Institute, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. |
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| Abstract: | Microsatellite analysis was used to analyse the level of extra-pair paternity (EPP) in the semi-colonially breeding linnet Carduelis cannabina in Denmark. During the breeding seasons of 1998 and 1999 EPP accounted for only 3.8% of young (4/106, 95% CL=1–13%). These extra-pair young were found in 9.1% of the broods (2/22, 95% CL=1–29%). We hypothesize that this low level of EPP is due to an efficient use of both mate guarding and frequent copulations as paternity guards. However, experimental tests with temporary detainment of males would be needed to establish whether there is a causal relationship between the low EPP level and the double paternity guard. |
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