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Inter-male competition and mating success in the field cricket, Gryllus bimaculatus (de Geer)by: L. W. Simmons
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AbstractMales of the field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus compete aggressively for the acquisition of burrows and females. The effect of population density on the nature of encounters between males, and factors affecting individual competitive ability were examined. Aggression was reduced in high population densities, both in terms of the proportion of encounters leading to aggression and in the intensity of aggressive disputes. The addition of burrows and females increased aggressiveness and removed population density effects. Individual competitive ability was determined primarily by body size and secondly, by an individual's past experience of winning (`confidence'). Competitive ability, prior residence in burrows and the presence of females all appear to influence the outcome of aggressive disputes. Variation in calling frequency of males was influenced both by population density and competitive ability; males who called more often had a greater encounter rate with females. Females were more likely to mate with burrow residents. However, amongst residents, larger males gained more matings. The potential for female choice in this species is discussed.
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