SREL Reprint #2298

Relativity of behavioral interactions in socially structured populations

Ronald K. Chesser

Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602
Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802

Abstract: Mammals form a variety of inter-individual associations within populations. Because associations between individuals usually are typified by different degrees of genetic correlations within and among groups, evolution of behaviors appropriate to each type will differ also. I reviewed alternative types of behavior and examined conditions favorable for the evolution of social groups. F-statistics are fundamental to evolution of social behaviors and estimation of spatial and temporal dynamics of gene frequencies. Therefore, mating and dispersal tactics within populations establish the genetic background which, in turn, influences selection of other behavioral characteristics. Because evolution of social behaviors is relative to proportions of gene diversity among groups, conditions favoring evolutionary change may remain relatively constant despite continuous losses in genetic variance over time. Evolution of spite and behaviors favoring family groups may be limited by low reproductive rates in many mammals. Low reproductive potential also may be a primary reason that many mammalian social groupings are formed among offspring of related families. Mating behaviors most conducive to the formation of inter-family social groups are discussed.

Keywords: social behavior, evolution, genetics, F-statistics, mating systems, polygyny

SREL Reprint #2298

Chesser, R.K. 1998. Relativity of behavioral interactions in socially structured populations. Journal of Mammalogy 79:713-724.

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).