Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/E010806/1

The long term effects of family conflict in birds

Principal Investigator:: Dr I Hartley, Lancaster University, Biological Sciences
Grant held at:: Lancaster University, Biological Sciences

ENRIs:: Natural Resource Management; Biodiversity
Science Topics:: Population Genetics/Evolution; Population Ecology; Behavioural Ecology

Abstract:: Family conflicts are widespread and play an important role in the evolution of many behaviours and traits. In birds, for example, sexual conflict, parent-offspring conflict and sibling rivalry are all important components of within-family interactions that can influence survival and reproductive success. So far, most studies have focussed on the costs and benefits to the parents of parent-offspring conflict, whereas the effects on offspring, and especially the longer term effects, have received little attention. In this project using zebra finches, we will experimentally manipulate competition within broods by creating synchronous and asynchronously hatching broods, and so broods where chicks are similar, or differ, in size. Chick size is an important determinant in the outcome of competition for food delivered by parents and as hatching synchrony is under parental control it is a component of parent-offspring conflict. This will be the first experimental study: 1) to quantify the effects of parent-offspring conflict on variation in offspring growth strategies while controlling for genetic differences between families, and 2) to quantify the longer term effects of this conflict on traits that influence offspring fecundity. This will add an important dimension to our understanding of the far reaching effects of family conflict and the measurement of fitness.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £47,810

DI - Other Costs	Indirect - Indirect Costs	DA - Investigators	DI - Staff	DA - Estate Costs
£3,137	£18,748	£2,895	£17,342	£5,688

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