Molecular sibship reconstruction reveals a promiscuous mating system in brood parasitic little bronze-cuckoos (Chalcites minutillus)

• DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arae041
• Publication Date: 2024-05-20T11:56:14Z
• Authors: Hee-Jin Noh; Linda Neaves; Alicia Grealy; Naomi E Langmore
• Keywords: 0301 basic medicine; 03 medical and health sciences

Abstract In theory, emancipation from parental care is expected to favor promiscuous mating systems. However, in avian brood parasites, monogamy surprisingly widespread, and it has been proposed that this may be favored by factors such as low population density territoriality. Correspondingly, our previous research revealed parasitic Horsfield’s bronze-cuckoos (Chalcites basalis), which occur at densities defend territories, are monogamous. Here, we contrast study with the system of congeneric little bronze-cuckoo (C. minutillus), an obligate parasite exploits more concentrated hosts is, therefore, likely higher densities. We use single nucleotide polymorphisms characterize reproductive patterns unsampled adults inferring sibling relationships among 30 offspring. show (1) occurred high densities, (2) polygamy was most common pattern found both sexes, (3) where multiple cuckoo eggs laid same nest, they were unrelated. These results indicate females do not exclusive males (polygyny). Instead, appear have a non-territorial, system. Our consistent theoretical predictions evolve species emancipated care, there plenty available mates, home ranges defended.