Sexual Selection and Mating Systems: Contributions from a Neotropical Passerine Model

Macêdo, Regina H.; Manica, Lilian Tonelli

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-14280-3_4

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 108 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…Information about tropical avian breeding biology is relatively scarce, and little is known about critical nesting parameters, such as clutch size, incubation period and nestling period for the majority of species (Xiao et al 2016). Although many studies have elucidated relevant aspects of the blue‐black grassquit's breeding biology (summarized in Macedo and Manica 2019), several issues remain unexplored. Here we present the first estimate of nesting success taking into consideration the effects of botfly infection on grassquit breeding.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Philornis infection in blue‐black grassquits: impact on nestlings and risk factors involved

Biagolini-Jr.

Macêdo

2021

Journal of Avian Biology

Self Cite

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Parasitic botfly larvae (Philornis ssp., Diptera: Muscidae) are found in nests of several bird taxa, although prevalence and impact on nestling survival vary considerably among species. Here we describe patterns of botfly infestation in blue‐black grassquit Volatinia jacarina nestlings. We identified the most typically affected nestling body parts and assessed parasite prevalence, impact on nestling survival, and changes in nestling body shape. Additionally, we tested whether climatic conditions, nest morphology and habitat characteristics are associated with larvae abundance. Blue‐black grassquits had low breeding success (16% of eggs/nestlings survived to fledged; 19% of the nests fledged at least one), but most failures resulted from predation by vertebrate predators. We estimated that 1% of nestlings died due to botfly infestation, and the number of subcutaneous larvae (range 1–18) in a nestling's body did not predict fledging success. Infected chicks exhibited higher tarsus asymmetry. Thus, we argue that although botflies had a small impact on offspring survival, they may reduce fitness in adulthood. There was no evidence that environmental conditions and nest morphology are linked to the number of larvae on nestlings. Nesting areas with higher food supply had lower infestation rates. Possibly, food‐rich habitats allow parents to invest more time in offspring care (brooding nestlings), thus protecting them from fly attacks. Alternatively, vegetation composition could influence local invertebrate diversity, which could provide a natural trophic buffer against adult Philornis. The present study brings to light new perspectives concerning bird–botfly interaction.

show abstract

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%