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Kin Recognition
Most studies of kin recognition have been carried out in natural settings; this has the advantage that the functions of kin recognition can be studied. We, however, are primarily interested in the mechanisms by which individuals recognize kin.
To facilitate investigation of these questions we have developed a number of behavioral assays that can be carried out in the lab. An example is the use of two scent marking behaviors as an assay for kin recognition. One of these behaviors is used for sexual advertisement and the other is used in aggressive contexts such as burrow defense. Both of these behaviors provide evidence for kin recognition (more aggressive behavior and more sexual solicitation towards non-kin).
In addition, we have provided some of the best evidence available for recognition of kin by self-referent phenotype matching (the armpit effect).
Publications
Heth, G., Todrank, J., & Johnston, R.E. 1998. Kin recognition in hamsters: evidence for phenotype matching. Animal Behaviour, 56, 409-417.
Todrank, J., Heth, G. & Johnston, R.E. 1999. Kin and individual recognition: odor signals, social experience and mechanisms of recognition. In: Advances in Chemical Signals in Vertebrates, Ed. by R.E.Johnston, D.Muller-Schwarze & P.W. Sorensen. (Plenum Press, New York). pp 289-297.
Mateo, J.M. & Johnston, R.E. 2000. Kin recognition and the 'armpit effect':Evidence for self-referent phenotype matching. Proc.Royal Soc. London, 267, 695-700.
