Date of Graduation
Winter 12-2013
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Biology
First Advisor
Scott Nunes
Second Advisor
Jennifer Dever
Third Advisor
Mary Jane Niles
Abstract
I investigated 1) multiple paternity in Belding’s ground squirrels (Urocitellus beldingi) and 2) social partner preferences in juvenile U. beldingi. Prior work with blood allozymes demonstrated multiple paternity in U. beldingi litters. I evaluated paternity using microsatellite DNA analysis, which is more accurate than examining blood allozymes. My results indicate that multiple paternity in U. beldingi is more extensive than previously shown, occurring in about 90% of litters with more than one juvenile, and averaging 2.95 fathers in multiply sired litters. I also evaluated the hypothesis that play and other social behavior promotes bonding among juvenile female U. beldingi. All male U. beldingi emigrate from the natal area before reproducing, whereas most females remain in their natal areas throughout their lives and act cooperatively with close female relatives. Thus, it may be important for young females to establish bonds with sisters, and especially full sisters since kin selection favors cooperation with full sisters over half-sisters. However, my data did not support this hypothesis. Juvenile females demonstrated no preference for interacting with full versus half-sisters in play or other social behaviors. By contrast, juvenile male U. beldingi played and affiliated with full brothers for longer durations than they did with half-brothers. This result suggests that social behavior based on relatedness is important for juvenile male U. beldingi; however, how preferential interaction with full brothers might be important is not yet clear.
Recommended Citation
Weidenbach, Jessica, "Determining parentage and the effects of relatedness on play partner preference in Belding's ground squirrels" (2013). Master's Theses. 73.
https://repository.usfca.edu/thes/73
Included in
Behavior and Ethology Commons, Biology Commons, Genetics Commons