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Data from: Testosterone production ability predicts breeding success and tracks breeding stage in male finches

Cite this dataset

Cain, Kristal E.; Pryke, Sarah R. (2016). Data from: Testosterone production ability predicts breeding success and tracks breeding stage in male finches [Dataset]. Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.70gh4

Abstract

Testosterone (T) is an important mediator of reproductive behaviours and potential target for selection. However, there are few data relating natural variation in T to fitness estimates. Here, we used the GnRH challenge (an injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone which stimulates maximal T release), to examine how individual differences in T relate to reproductive success and how T changes across date and breeding stage. We measured pre- and post-challenge T, in captive male Gouldian finches (Erythrura gouldiae), before and after introducing females, and across breeding stage. Post-challenge T before introducing females positively predicted breeding success. Post-challenge T levels were unrelated to date, but strongly related to stage; T production ability was strongly attenuated in incubating males. Prechallenge T levels related only to date. Our results suggest that T production ability is an important target for selection and that when males invest heavily in parental care they reduce their sensitivity to GnRH.

Usage notes

Location

Australia