Transmission of paternal retrieval behavior from fathers to sons in a biparental rodent

• DOI: 10.1002/dev.22164
• Publication Date: 2021-08-01T19:45:45Z
• Authors: Elizabeth A. Becker; Amanda B. Leithead; Natalya Libo; Marie T. Kumerow; Lauren Goetsch; Catherine A. Marler
• Keywords: Stereotypy; Paternal care

Abstract Transmission of maternal behavior across generations occurs, but less is known about paternal behavior. In biparental species like the California mouse ( Peromyscus californicus ), care contributes to well‐being offspring with lasting consequences on brain and Paternal huddling/grooming can be passed future generations, whether retrieval, which removes young from potential harm, transmitted independently unclear. We manipulated retrieval experience through pup displacement manipulations, then examined males exposed higher levels in development altered their adult offspring. Males heightened retrievals, as compared reduced retrieved more often huddled/groomed during undisturbed natural observations. No differences were observed following a challenge. The high group also exhibited physical activity stereotypy. Our results are consistent hypothesis that may function via mechanisms separate huddling/grooming. One modifying factor anxiety because increased stereotypy occurred group. speculate how transmission retrievals inform protective parenting style.