Identification of sex and parasitism via pheromones by the Ozark zigzag salamander

Chemoreception.

“…In terrestrial ectotherms, some species of salamanders (e.g., genus Plethodon) aggressively defend territories (interstitial spaces under rocks and logs) and advertise ownership using chemical cues deposited on substrates or fecal pellets. These cues can provide signal receivers with information about sex, body size, diet, parasite load, and familiarity (neighbor vs. stranger; e.g., Dalton & Mathis, 2014;Jaeger, 1981). Territoriality is common in many lizard species, but territorial markers serving as signals to competitors have only been reported in a few taxa, whereas scent marks serving as advertisement of males to potential mates may be more common (J.…”

“…For example, female terrestrial salamanders (Plethodon angusticlavius) spent more time near territorial markers from males with lower loads of mite (Hannemania eltoni) parasites compared to males with higher parasite loads (Maksimowich & Mathis, 2001). Moreover, nonparasitized males performed more threat postures in response to substrate markings from parasitized conspecific males (Dalton & Mathis, 2014). Similarly, female mice (Mus musculus) used urinary odors to identify males that were parasitized by a gastrointestinal nematode (Heligmosomoides polygyrus), even though there were no obvious signs of sickness (Kavaliers, Choleris, Ågmo, & Pfaff, 2004).…”