Female-Biased Dispersal in Large Treeshrews
Author Information
Author(s): Jason Munshi-South
Primary Institution: Department of Natural Sciences, Baruch College, City University of New York
Hypothesis
Is dispersal and gene flow female-biased in the large treeshrew (Tupaia tana), a behaviorally monogamous species?
Conclusion
The study provides the first evidence of female-biased dispersal in a behaviorally monogamous species without mating fidelity.
Supporting Evidence
- Genetic analyses indicated that adult females had lower mean assignment indices than males.
- Adult female pairs were less related than adult male pairs.
- Migration rates for maternally inherited markers were higher than for bi-parentally inherited markers.
Takeaway
In large treeshrews, females are more likely to move away from their home areas than males, which helps them find better places to live and raise their young.
Methodology
Genetic analyses were conducted using microsatellite loci and mitochondrial DNA to assess dispersal patterns and gene flow.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in sampling could affect the observed patterns of dispersal.
Limitations
The study's sample size may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study involved 54 large treeshrews from two populations in Borneo.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95th percentile values provided for migration estimates.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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