In:
Amphibia-Reptilia, Brill, Vol. 34, No. 4 ( 2013), p. 539-549
Abstract:
In many animals, aspects of colouration are hypothesized to convey information on the body condition or quality of individuals. This idea has been tested primarily for the carotenoid-based component of body colouration. The significance of other pigments in this context has received far less attention. In the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara , the degree of black patterning on the ventrum and throats is sexually dimorphic and varies considerably among individuals. In this study, we examine whether this melanin-based component of body colouration may reflect individual differences in quality (SVL, condition, immune response). We find that males (but not females) with a higher degree of ventral patterning mount a stronger phytohemagglutinin-induced immune response. The amount of black patterning does not correlate with body size, body condition, aspects of dorsal colouration or parasite load. We conclude that in male Zootoca vivipara , melanin-based ventral colouration may signal an aspect of immune capacity to sexual rivals or potential partners.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0173-5373
,
1568-5381
DOI:
10.1163/15685381-00002916
Language:
Unknown
Publisher:
Brill
Publication Date:
2013
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2036962-1
SSG:
12
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