Early determinants of lifetime reproductive success differ between the sexes in red deer.

ABSTRACT: In polygynous, sexually dimorphic species, sexual selection should be stronger in males than in females. Although this prediction extends to the effects of early development on fitness, few studies have documented early determinants of lifetime reproductive success in a natural mammal population. In this paper, we describe factors affecting the reproductive success of male and female red deer (Cervus elaphus) on the island of Rum, Scotland. Birthweight was a significant determinant of total lifetime reproductive success in males, with heavier-born males being more successful than lighter ones. In contrast, birthweight did not affect female reproductive success. High population density and cold spring temperatures in the year of birth decreased several components of fitness in females, but

SUBMITTER: Kruuk LE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1690188 | biostudies-literature | 1999 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature