Attractiveness of scents varies with protein content of the diet in meadow voles

Article Abstract:

Variations in protein content of diet affect the attractiveness of scents in meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus. Both males and females exhibit preference for odors of opposite-sex conspecifics fed with a 15% or a 25% protein content diet as compared to those fed with a 9% protein content diet. The protein content influences the attractiveness of odors from anogenital area, faeces and urine. High quality diet quality enhances the secondary sexual characteristics and influences the mate selection decisions.

Sexual behavior, Courtship of animals, Mating behavior, Animal nutrition, Voles, Dietary protein, Proteins in animal nutrition

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Tenacious nipple attachment in rodents: the sibling competition hypothesis

Article Abstract:

Strong nipple attachment in rodents is a defense mechanism which has developed in response to sibling competition for maternal resources. Four different hypothesis, anti falling, anti-drowning, anti-predator, and infant-nipple contact, are proposed. Litters also exhibit sibling competition. When the nipple number is less than the litter size, the stoutness of nipple attachment and pup mortality increases. The attachment behavior is only exhibited by Muridae.

Competition (Biology)

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The response of native Australian rodents to predator odours varies seasonally: a by-product of life history variation?

Article Abstract:

Impact of faecal odors of predators on Australian rodent species' behavior is examined.

Australia, Science & research, Physiological aspects, Predatory animals, Odours

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