Female-female aggression in the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum).

ABSTRACT: Historically, the role of aggression in the social lives of animals overwhelmingly focused on males. In recent years, however, female-female aggression in vertebrates, particularly lizards, has received increasing attention. This growing body of literature shows both similarities and differences to aggressive behaviours between males. Here, we document female-female aggression in captive Gila monsters (Heloderma suspectum). Based on four unique dyadic trials (eight adult female subjects), we developed a qualitative ethogram. Unexpected and most intriguing were the prevalence and intensity of aggressive acts that included brief and sustained biting, envenomation, and lateral rotation (i.e. rolling of body while holding onto opponent with closed jaws). Given specific behavioural acts

SUBMITTER: Schuett GW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10170349 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature