Microsatellite DNA Analysis of the Communal Breeding System of the Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani) in Southwest Puerto Rico

Abstract

The communal breeding system of the smooth-billed ani (Crotophaga ani) was studied at two wildlife refuges in southwest Puerto Rico. Groups ranged in size from 2 to 9 adults, and communal clutches ranged in size from 11 to more than 25 eggs. Microsatellite DNA loci were isolated and used to examine the mating system and the extent of reproductive skew in individual groups. Loci were also screened in guira cuckoos (Guira guira) to examine the relationships suggested by Quinn et al. (1994). In the four focal smooth-billed ani groups, I found suggestions of monogamy, polygamy, and incidents of intraspecific brood parasitism. In all groups, incubated clutch size and microsatellite data indicate that subordinate females are gaining some reproductive success. At one nest, evidence suggested a decrease in the intensity of reproductive skew between successive nests. Although the data are limited, they suggest that alternative strategies to monogamy may be more prevalent than previously believed, and that reproductive skew may be affected by the availability of limiting resources within the breeding season.