Evaluating Mate Preference in Adult Female Sea Lampreys

Session: 08b. - Restoration of Native Fishes

Courtney Higgins, University of Michigan-Flint, [email protected]
Michael Wagner, Michigan State University, [email protected]
Heather Dawson, University of Michigan-Flint, [email protected]

Abstract

Climate change is expected to increase growth and fecundity in the invasive Great Lakes sea lamprey. If females discern external correlates of male genetic quality or fertility (e.g., body size, sex pheromone production), we may expect females to prefer mating with larger males to increase their reproductive success. The consequence would be larger populations in the future. We tested female preference for larger males in a mesocosm in a tributary to Lake Huron. We presented each female (N=40) individually with the simultaneous choice of a small or large spermiating male in a two-way mate preference experiment. Males were situated in small net pens upstream of the female, while the female and the male pens were within a larger net pen that allowed her to associate with either male. Ten-minute observations were conducted to ascertain whether females preferred larger males, males on the left- or right-side of the apparatus, or more active males. We also examined whether female activity, or the odor of sexually-mature male sea lamprey upstream, affected the female’s preferences. Females did not prefer larger males, but did exhibit a mesocosm side bias, and spent more time with smaller males vs. larger males when upstream male odor was present. 

1. Keyword
fish behavior

2. Keyword
invasive species

3. Keyword
climate change