Dissertation Research: Determinants of Variation in Fitness Related Traits in Callithrix jacchus

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The primary goal of this proposal is to clarify the factors which lead to variation in litter size and infant survivorship in a species of new world monkey, Callithrix jacchus. This species is particularly interesting as it habitually gives birth to twins, but will also produce litters with either one or three offspring. From a theoretical perspective, the determinants of variation will provide insight into the opportunity for the operation of evolution through natural selection, as well as the stages in development at which it occurs. Also, it will be possible to determine the degree to which prenatal growth and number of fetuses effects survivorship in the period after birth. Through statistical analyses, the investigators will be able to estimate the genetic component to both litter size and infant survivorship. The basic data will be gathered through the use of laproscopic examinations to determine the timing of ovulation and ultrasound to determine the number of fetuses and to follow the growth of the litters.