Ekologický a etologický význam zbarvení kočkovitých šelem (Felidae)

Jaroš, Filip

The presented work investigates various theories about the significance of felid coat patterns. Most of the hypotheses are based on the theory of adaptive function of animal colouration. As regards felids, it is generally believed that the coat pattern has the function of aggressive resemblance. Early testimonies about cryptic properties of colouration of cats are summarized to provide the historical perspective of the problem. Other putative adaptive functions of patterns are investigated (intraspecific communication, thermoregulation) and close attention is paid to the option that the spotted coat of the leopard (Panthera pardus) serves as a cue for recognition from the perspective of prey. In the next stage, some of the hypotheses are tested by statistical means. The problem is simplified into search for association between a given category of a coat pattern (e.g. spots, stripes) and usual habitat of felid species (e.g. forest, grassland). Pagel's test for correlated changes is employed to account for phylogenetic relationships. In addition to broadly acknowledged hypotheses, the validity of proposition that juvenile coat patterns have the function of protective resemblance is tested. Finally, the problem of colouration of felids is linked to broader context of theoretical biology. Apart from prevailing...

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