Nematode parasites reduce cartenoid-based signalling in male red grouse

Martinez-Padilla, Jesus; Mougeot, Francois; Perez-Rodriquez, Lorenzo; Bortolotti, Gary R.. 2007 Nematode parasites reduce cartenoid-based signalling in male red grouse. Biology Letters, 3. 161-164. 10.1098/rsbl.2006.0593

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Abstract/Summary

Carotenoids determine the yellow–red colours of many ornaments, which often function as signals of quality. Carotenoid-based signalling may reliably advertise health and should be particularly sensitive to parasite infections. Nematodes are among the commonest parasites of vertebrates, with well-documented negative effects on their hosts. However, to date, little is known about the effects that these parasites may have on carotenoid-based signalling. Tetraonid birds (grouse) exhibit supra-orbital combs, which are bright integumentary ornaments pigmented by carotenoids. We tested the effect of the nematode parasite Trichostrongylus tenuis on signalling in free-living male red grouse Lagopus lagopus scoticus. We show that experimentally reduced nematode infection increases plasma carotenoid concentration and comb redness, demonstrating for the first time that nematodes can influence carotenoid-based signals.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	10.1098/rsbl.2006.0593
Programmes:	CEH Programmes pre-2009 publications > Biodiversity > BD01 Conservation and Restoration of Biodiversity
UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas:	Watt
ISSN:	1744-9561
Additional Keywords:	carotenoids, comb, nematodes, red grouse, Lagopus lagopus scoticus, Trichostrongylus tenuis
NORA Subject Terms:	Biology and Microbiology
Date made live:	14 Dec 2009 09:11 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/8776

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