Biology 484 – Ethology

Chapter 8 – Choosing Where to Live

Chapter 8 Opener: Monarch butterflies cluster in winter in only a handful of locations

8.2 Change in territory size in relation to an experimental change in territory quality (Part 1)

8.2 Change in territory size in relation to an experimental change in territory quality (Part 2)

In this species of lizard, the presence of rocks is BENEFICIAL to the success of the individual. Hence, larger territories are needed in areas with few rocks.

8.2 Change in territory size in relation to an experimental change in territory quality (Part 3)

8.3 Finding a new home

8.5 Reaching a decision about where to live (Part 1)

Over a three day period, concensus in scout choice occurs in the hive and they move to the new location.

8.5 Reaching a decision about where to live (Part 2)

8.5 Reaching a decision about where to live (Part 3)

8.5 Reaching a decision about where to live (Part 4)

8.6 Poplar galls are occupied by poplar aphids

8.7 Territorial dispute between two poplar aphids

The females are trying to determine who can occupy gall in a superior location on a leaf.

8.8 Territories and reproductive success

8.9 The trade-off between development of locomotory muscles and reproductive equipment

Crickets given JH will not develop mature wings and hence their flight muscles stay rudimentary. This is compensated by an increas in the size of their ovaries.

Question… what role may this play in their ultimate success in different territories?

8.10 Distances dispersed by male and female Belding’s ground squirrels

Why do males travel further?

8.11 Inbreeding depression in oldfield mice

Mothers from inbred matings have a lower breeding potential in terms of time and ultimate success.

8.12 Male and female lions differ in their dispersal patterns

8.17 Flying in V-formation is an energy saver

8.21 Monarch butterflies spend winter in huge clusters on fir trees in a few Mexican mountain sites

8.22 Habitat quality and survival of monarchs overwintering in central Mexico

8.25 Energetic costs of territoriality (Part 1)

Testosterone implanted lizards were more active.

8.25 Energetic costs of territoriality (Part 2)Testosterone implanted lizards that received suppliments were better able to survive than controls, but those with no supplements had poorer success due to energy costs.

8.31 Fat reserves determine the winner of territorial conflicts in black-winged damselflies (Part 1)

Thorax weight (a measure of size) does not determine success

8.31 Fat reserves determine the winner of territorial conflicts in black-winged damselflies (Part 2)

The fat content (fat reserves) are strong indicators of success.