Meeting Abstract

55.3  Jan. 6  Display behavior, sexual signal size, and performance in Anolis sagrei WOOD, Jessica A.*; MEYERS, Jay; IRSCHICK, Duncan J.; Tulane University; University of Massachusetts, Amherst; University of Massachusetts, Amherst jwood@tulane.edu

The theory of honest signaling posits several predictions; (1) There will be variation in quality among males, particularly within a polygynous mating system, and (2) high-quality males will exhibit displays or indicators of their status. The primary problem with this paradigm has been in determining how to define �quality�. Our approach has been to examine organismal performance as a key indicator of male quality in a polygynous mating system. Specifically, we examined if links exist between display behavior, sexual signal size (in this case dewlap size), and two kinds of organismal performance (bite force and sprint speed). We examined the lizard Anolis sagrei because this species is ubiquitous, possesses an enlarged sexual signal, and readily uses its performance capacities during social interactions. We filmed the display behavior of 64 male Anolis sagrei and analyzed each individual�s quality in Bimini, Bahamas in July 2006. We also measured the dewlap size of all individuals filmed to determine if this characteristic is related to display behavior. Our results reveal intricate relationships among male sexual signal size, performance, and display behavior, and point towards performance as a key player in sexual selection.