The genetic mating system of a sex-role-reversed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle): a molecular inquiry |
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| Authors: | Adam G Jones Gunilla Rosenqvist Anders Berglund John C Avise |
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| Institution: | (1) Department of Genetics, University of Georgia Athens, GA 30602, USA, GE;(2) Department of Zoology Norwegian University of Science and Technology N-7491 Trondheim, Norway, NO;(3) Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University Norbyv. 18d, S-75236 Uppsala, Sweden, SE |
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| Abstract: | In the pipefish Syngnathus typhle as in other species of Syngnathidae, developing embryos are reared on the male's ventral surface. Although much laboratory
research has been directed toward understanding sexual selection in this sex-role-reversed species, few studies have addressed
the mating behavior of S. typhle in the wild, and none has capitalized upon the power of molecular genetic assays. Here we present the first direct assessment
of the genetic mating system of S. typhle in nature. Novel microsatellite loci were cloned and characterized from this species, and employed to assay entire broods
from 30 pregnant, field-captured males. Genetic analysis of 1340 embryos revealed that 1–6 females (mean = 3.1) contributed
to each brooded clutch, the highest rate of multiple maternity yet documented in any pipefish. Evidence of multiple mating
by females was also detected. Thus, this population of S. typhle displays a polygynandrous mating system, a finding consistent with previous field and laboratory observations. Our results,
considered together with similar studies of other syngnathid species, provide preliminary support for the hypothesis that
the genetic mating system is related to the evolution of sexual dimorphism in the fish family Syngnathidae.
Received: 19 January 1999 / Received in revised form: 15 April 1999 / Accepted: 9 May 1999 |
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| Keywords: | Mating system Polygynandry Microsatellites Parentage Pipefish Syngnathus typhle |
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