Abstract
AbstractInclusive fitness theory predicts that cannibalism should be more likely to arise if close relatives can be avoided, suggesting that cannibalistic species will possess mechanisms for minimizing predation on kin. JuvenileMiomantis caffraare good candidates for the possession of such traits because; (1) groups of siblings hatch together into the same locale, (2) they are aggressive hunters, and (3) they are strongly cannibalistic. In this study, the possibility of kin recognition or avoidance inM. caffrais investigated by laboratory comparison of cannibalism rates between groups of differing relatedness. In order to examine the likelihood of encounters between early instar siblings, the extent of dispersal away from the ootheca in the days following hatching is also observed. Nymphs did not rapidly disperse after hatching, so the chances of full siblings encountering one another in the wild appear to be high. Despite this, cannibalism was equally high in groups of full siblings and groups of mixed parenthood. We suggest that forM. caffra, a generalist ambush predator, the benefits of indiscriminate aggression may outweigh any inclusive fitness benefits that would be gained from kin discrimination.
Highlights
Many biological traits can be understood more clearly in the light of kin selection theory (Mock and Parker 1998), which demonstrates how individuals may increase their total fitness by aiding their relatives, due to the high proportion of genes shared among them (Hamilton 1964; West and Gardner 2010)
We suggest that for M. caffra, a generalist ambush predator, the benefits of indiscriminate aggression may outweigh any inclusive fitness benefits that would be gained from kin discrimination
Most studies testing kin selection theory focus on the helping of kin, in regard to intraspecific aggression, theory predicts that increasing its rate across all members of a population must decrease the expected survival of all individuals, inducing a necessary inclusive fitness cost (Nishimura and Isoda 2004)
Summary
Many biological traits can be understood more clearly in the light of kin selection theory (Mock and Parker 1998), which demonstrates how individuals may increase their total fitness by aiding their relatives, due to the high proportion of genes shared among them (Hamilton 1964; West and Gardner 2010). This may facilitate the evolution of altruistic behavior (e.g., Nam et al 2010). A combination of these may be used (e.g., Newey 2010)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
