Intra- and inter-sexual aggression in the ground skink (Scincella lateralis)

Abstract

Differences in reproductive investment between males and females can be a basis for both intra- and inter-sexual conflict. In a series of laboratory experiments, I staged intra- and inter-sexual contests for food between pairs of adult ground skinks (Scincella lateralis). Males were significantly more aggressive than females. Size asymmetry between contestants significantly affected intrasexual behavior between females, as smaller individuals exhibited avoidance behaviors more frequently than larger individuals. Aggression was more prevalent in intersexual contests than in intrasexual contests, and males bit females significantly more often than females bit males. Females captured significantly fewer prey in the presence of a male than in control tests, but showed more avoidance behaviors in intersexual contests than did males. These results suggest that intersexual conflict may be important in social interactions in ground skinks, particularly with respect to spatial distribution.