Sexually Selected Infanticide in a Polygynous Bat
Author Information
Author(s): Mirjam Knörnschild, Katja Ueberschaer, Maria Helbig, Elisabeth K. V. Kalko
Primary Institution: Institute of Experimental Ecology, University of Ulm
Hypothesis
Is sexually selected infanticide present in bats, specifically in the polygynous white-throated round-eared bat?
Conclusion
The study provides evidence that sexually selected infanticide occurs in the white-throated round-eared bat, suggesting this behavior is more widespread among species than previously thought.
Supporting Evidence
- Male bats were observed attacking and injuring pups when their mothers were absent.
- The infanticidal male mated with the mother of the victimized pup sooner than with other females.
- Behavioral observations indicated that infanticide was a male-specific behavior.
- Infanticide was linked to the male's reproductive strategy to increase mating opportunities.
Takeaway
Some male bats hurt and even kill the babies of females they want to mate with, which helps them have babies sooner.
Methodology
Behavioral observations were conducted over 13 nights to classify social behaviors in a free-living population of bats.
Potential Biases
The study may be biased due to the limited observation period and the specific conditions of the study site.
Limitations
Genetic samples were not collected, making it impossible to confirm the relatedness between the aggressor and the victimized pups.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on a group of white-throated round-eared bats, including one adult male and two adult females with their pups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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