PI: Gibson IBN: 9604668 This project will investigate the relationship between social behavior and genetic relatedness in lek-breeding bird, the Sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus). This species serves as a model system for the analysis of mate choice (sexual selection) in animals because breeding takes place at easily-observed leks , spatially-predictable groups of males visited by females for mating. The study will isolate polymorphic DNA markers from sag grouse blood that can be used to measure paternity and relatedness, and use these markers to (I) test inferences about paternity of broods derived from behavioral observations, and (II) survey patterns of genetic relatedness within and among natural social groups. This research involves a combination of observational field studies and genetic analysis in the laboratory. The results will address fundamental questions about the biological basis of choice behavior in animals.
