Naslov
Effects of fighting decisions on formation and structure of dominance hierarchies

Autori
Hock, Karlo ; Huber, Robert

Izvornik
Marine and Freshwater Behaviour and Physiology (1023-6244) 40 (2007), 2; 153-169

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
dominance hierarchy; aggression; initiation; contest dynamics

Sažetak
The characteristics of complex social systems often cannot be predicted from exploring individual agonistic interactions in isolation. In a series of models, this study linked the decision-making processes that govern dyadic interactions with the emergent properties of hierarchical structures in social groups. Contrary to the intuitive expectation that resolution of ambiguities in fighting between closely matched opponents effectively promotes the formation of a social hierarchy, engagement in contests with opponents of dissimilar status lead to a faster emergence of hierarchical structures. The increased certainty of outcome in such asymmetric contests both reinforced the previously established dominance and allowed for an indirect resolution of existing ambiguous relationships. High-return fights also resulted in a more rapid hierarchy formation, while escalating in fights decreased the costs of maintaining hierarchical relationships and increased their stability.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Biologija

POVEZANOST RADA