Meeting Abstract
Previous studies of green salamanders, Aneides aeneus, have shown that resident males exclude intruding males from territories and resident females exclude intruding females (Cupp 1980, Cupp unpubl. data). This study addresses the question, will male-female pairs cooperate in defending against intruding males, or will resident males play a more significant role in territorial defense. Territorial and aggressive behavior of male-female pairs of green salamanders, A. aeneus, from southeastern Kentucky were studied during late spring, summer, and fall. When male A. aeneus were placed into lab chambers or rock crevices containing resident male-female pairs, resident males responded aggressively while females did not. In 18 trials, resident males won 16 encounters, usually exhibiting overt aggression in chasing intruders from the chamber or crevice. Aggressive behaviors used during these encounters, primarily by resident males, included snapping, snout-pressing, biting, and bite-holds. In five cases, intruding males attempted to initiate courtship behavior with resident females. Females showed little or no aggression, usually remaining off to the side away from the aggressive activity. The lack of aggression of females toward males may be related to the stronger jaw musculature and elongated premaxillary teeth of males that could potentially damage eggs of gravid females. Resident males are the aggressors and defenders against intruding males.
