Optimization of resource allocation can explain the temporal dynamics and honesty of sexual signals

Lindstrom, J. , Pike, T.W., Blount, J.D. and Metcalfe, N.B. (2009) Optimization of resource allocation can explain the temporal dynamics and honesty of sexual signals. American Naturalist, 174(4), pp. 515-525. (doi: 10.1086/606008) (PMID:19737111)

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Abstract

In species in which males are free to dynamically alter their allocation to sexual signaling over the breeding season, the optimal investment in signaling should depend on both a male’s state and the level of competition he faces at any given time. We developed a dynamic optimization model within a game‐theoretical framework to explore the resulting signaling dynamics at both individual and population levels and tested two key model predictions with empirical data on three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) males subjected to dietary manipulation (carotenoid availability): (1) fish in better nutritional condition should be able to maintain their signal for longer over the breeding season, resulting in an increasingly positive correlation between nutritional status and signal (i.e., increasing signal honesty), and (2) female preference for more ornamented males should thus increase over the breeding season. Both predictions were supported by the experimental data. Our model shows how such patterns can emerge from the optimization of resource allocation to signaling in a competitive situation. The key determinants of the honesty and dynamics of sexual signaling are the condition dependency of male survival, the initial frequency distribution of nutritional condition in the male population, and the cost of signaling.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Lindstrom, Dr Jan and Metcalfe, Professor Neil and Pike, Dr Thomas
Authors: Lindstrom, J., Pike, T.W., Blount, J.D., and Metcalfe, N.B.
Subjects:Q Science > QH Natural history
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:American Naturalist
Journal Abbr.:Am. Nat.
ISSN:0003-0147
ISSN (Online):1537-5323
Published Online:08 September 2009

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
364361Dietary antioxidants, lifespan and mate attraction in fishNeil MetcalfeNatural Environment Research Council (NERC)NER/A/S/2003/00RI BIODIVERSITY ANIMAL HEALTH & COMPMED