Abstract
Guppy, Poecilia reticulata, populations from two major Trinidadian drainages, the Caroni and Oropuche, are characterised by high levels of genetic divergence. Our aim in this paper was to determine whether this divergence is linked to behaviourally-based reproductive isolation. We compared two populations of guppies, one from the Tacarigua River in the Caroni drainage, the other from the Oropuche River in the Oropuche drainage. Guppies in both sites are subject to predation from the pike cichlid, Crenicichla alta, and other predators. In visual choice tests, virgin females from both the Oropuche and Tacarigua populations showed no preference for either type of male. This result was confirmed when females had free access to males. However, a population asymmetry in male mating behaviour resulted in Tacarigua males gaining virtually all copulations. We argue that predation risk has constrained female choice and discuss the evolutionary significance of population differences in male behaviour.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
