Work

Contribution of genetics to the study of animal personalities: a review of case studies

Year: 2005

Type: article

Abstract: The need for evolutionary studies on quantitative traits that integrate genetics is increasing.Studies on consistent individual differences in behavioural traits provide a good opportunity to do controlled experiments on the genetic mechanisms underlying the variation and covariation in complex behavioural traits.In this review we will highlight the contribution of genetic studies in animal personality research.We will start with reviewing the evidence that shows how much variation in animal personality traits is genetic, and connect this to knowledge from human personality studies.We will continue by considering the nature of that variation, its generation and maintenance.Finally we will point to further possibilities for studying the genetics of animal personalities.We will underline the importance of integrating both proximate and ultimate approaches when studying the evolution of animal personalities.

Source: Behaviour

DOI: 10.1163/156853905774539364

Authors: Pieter J. Drent, Arie J. van Noordwijk, Kees van Oers, Gerdien de Jong, B. Kempenaers

Institutions: Netherlands Institute of Ecology, Max Planck Society, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Utrecht University

Language: English

Topic: Animal Behavior and Reproduction

Subfield: Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Koninklijke Nederlandse Akademie van Wetenschappen, Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek

OpenAlex ID: W2170844886