Synchronization of Ultradian Rhythms of Activity in Young Japanese Quail: Effect of Kin Relationships
Titel:
Synchronization of Ultradian Rhythms of Activity in Young Japanese Quail: Effect of Kin Relationships
Auteur:
Pincemy, Gwenaëlle Guyomarc'h, Catherine
Verschenen in:
Biological rhythm research
Paginering:
Jaargang 35 (2004) nr. 4-5 pagina's 289-298
Jaar:
2004-10
Inhoud:
Synchronization of activity cycles is common in coveys of gallinaceous birds, which usually include a dozen chicks at birth. To study this synchronization more precisely, we recorded the ultradian rhythms of activity of seven groups of young Japanese quail reared in the laboratory, without brooding females. Four groups included only kin-related birds (K1-K4), two mixed groups consisted of associated chicks from two families (M1 and M2 groups), and the seventh group (NK group) included only non-kin chicks. Numbers of chicks in a group varied from eight to 14, depending on the group. They were observed twice during their two first weeks of life (day 3 and day 10) and all activities were recorded by scan sampling. An ultradian rhythm of activity, with a period less than 20 minutes, was found. This period varied among quail families. All chick groups were globally synchronized, except group M2 on day 3. Inter-individual levels of synchronization were calculated. Spearman rank correlation coefficients of the non-kin chicks were significantly lower than those of kin-related chicks. This was especially clear on day 3. Survival of newborn quails is linked to their presence within a covey or a group. Their survival, as well that of their brothers and sisters, may be enhanced by an ability to synchronize with kin better than with non-kin chicks.
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