Genes are responsible for making a different type of male ruff, a bird that breeds in Eurasia and winters in Africa, according to a new study.
Genes are responsible for making a different type of male ruff, a bird that breeds in Eurasia and winters in Africa, according to a new study.
Using genome sequencing, the University of Sheffi-eld researchers have now identified the genes that determine the striking mating behaviour of the males of the ruff. The ruff has a “lek” mating system, which means males of the species gather together and invest all of their energy into attracting females to mate with them, and none into parental care. Within this specific mating system three distinct breeding behaviour types are easily identifiable. Territorial breeding males have spectacular plumes around their neck (which is why these birds are called ruffs) and head, and vary enormously in colouration so that each male is distinguishable. Nonterri-torial so-called “satellite” males, which are distinguishable by their white feathers, concentrate on stealing mates from the territorial displaying males. A third type of male, which is thought of as a “cross-dresser”, mimics females. They are able to hide from other males in the lek, so avoiding territorial aggression, and succeed by effectively stealing mates from the resident males.
