Transgenerational plasticity of exploratory behavior and a hidden cost of mismatched risk environments between parental sexes.

ABSTRACT: We require a better understanding of the relative contribution of different modes of non-genetic inheritance in behavioral trait development. Thus, we investigate variation in exploratory behavior, which is ecologically relevant and a target of selection. The metabolic hypothesis predicts exploratory behavior to be size-dependent across taxa. This size-dependency is cancelled out under high perceived risk, allowing us to determine the transgenerationally integrated estimated level of risk. Using fathead minnows Pimephales promelas, we manipulated perceived risk in mothers, fathers, caring males and offspring through continuous exposure to either conspecific alarm cues or to a control water treatment. In 1000 four-month old offspring, we determined body sizes and exploratory behavior. Perce

SUBMITTER: Meuthen D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10643415 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature