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Reproductive parameters and maternal investment in mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx).

Setchell, J.M.; Lee, P.C.; Wickings, E.J.; Dixson, A.F.

Authors

P.C. Lee

E.J. Wickings

A.F. Dixson



Abstract

14 years of reproductive data are reported for semifree-ranging mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) in Gabon. Relationships between female rank, age and parity and reproductive strategies are explored. Most births (61% of 132) occurred during the wet season in Gabon, between January and March. Female rank and parity were unrelated to the timing of parturition. Gestation lengths averaged 175 days (SE =  1 day; N = 61) and were similar irrespective of female rank, parity or sex of offspring. Birth sex ratio did not differ significantly from unity (52% male), and was unrelated to maternal rank or parity. Stillbirths and neonatal mortality tended to be more common for lower ranking females than either mid-ranking or dominant females. Median age at first birth was 4.71 years, at a median body mass of 7.6 kg, some 5 years before females attain their adult body mass (median 12 kg). Age at first reproduction was significantly correlated with dominance rank, with dominant females giving birth on average 1.3 years earlier than lower ranking females. Interbirth intervals (IBI) averaged 405 days (range 184-1159 days, N = 103), and were independent of the sex of the offspring. Infant death within 6 months shortened IBI to 305 days. Increasing age and parity were also associated with short IBI, as was higher rank. Maternal rank and parity appear to influence reproductive success in female mandrills, but there was no apparent differential maternal investment by sex.

Citation

Setchell, J., Lee, P., Wickings, E., & Dixson, A. (2002). Reproductive parameters and maternal investment in mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx). International Journal of Primatology, 23, 51-68

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date 2002
Journal International Journal of Primatology
Print ISSN 0164-0291
Electronic ISSN 1573-8604
Publisher Springer
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 23
Pages 51-68
Keywords sex ratio, age-specific fecundity, interbirth intervals, status, parity
Public URL https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1574545