Asymmetry in genitalia is in sync with lateralized mating behavior but not with the lateralization of other behaviors

• DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoz019
• Publication Date: 2019-04-27T06:33:52Z
• Authors: Julián Torres-Dow...; Sina J Rometsch; Gastón Aguilera; Guillermo Goyenola; Axel Meyer
• Keywords: Fluctuating asymmetry

Asymmetries in bilateral organisms attract a lot of curiosity given that they are conspicuous departures from the norm. They allow investigation integration at different levels biological organization. Here we study whether and how behavioral asymmetrical anatomical traits co-evolved work together. We ask if asymmetry is determined locally for each trait or whole individual level species bearing genitalia. Asymmetric genitalia evolved many species; however, most cases direction fixed. Therefore, it has been rarely there an association between other traits. In onesided livebearer fish genus Jenynsia (Cyprinodontiformes, Anablepidae), anal fin males modified into gonopodium, intromittent organ serves to inseminate females. The gonopodium shows asymmetry, with its tip bending either left right. By surveying 13 natural populations lineata, found both genital morphs equally common wild populations. series experiments laboratory population, discovered lateralization multiple traits; yet, degree varied highly among them. Lateralization exploratory behavior response stimuli was not associated morphology. Interestingly, positively correlated sidedness mating preference number neuromasts lateral line. This suggests functionally linked asymmetric no evidence our species.