Social organisation and mating system of the narrow-striped mongoose (Mungotictis decemlineata)

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Peter M. Kappeler
• Subject Area: Sensory and Behavioural Biology
• Term: from 2012 to 2016
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 217269635

Among carnivores, some African mongooses (Herpestidae) exhibit complex societies. However, the social systems of their closest relatives, the endemic Malagasy Eupleridae, remain poorly studied. We aim to investigate key aspects of the social system of the narrow-striped mongoose (Mungotictis decemlineata) in order to (1) contribute to a broader appraisal of carnivore social evolution and to (2) test predictions of socio-ecological theory in this representative of a long isolated carnivore radiation. Anecdotal evidence indicates that this Euplerid mongoose lives in small groups (3-5 individuals) and exhibits social patterns similar to those reported for some Herpestidae. For the first time in M. decemlineata, we aim to combine detailed spatial data obtained via GPS telemetry with behavioural observations and genetic analyses to determine the average group composition in terms of age, sex and kinship structure as well as patterns of space use. Based on these data, we will also test predictions about sex-specific reproductive strategies, as well as the nature of intra-specific competition, association patterns and cooperative behaviour. This study will therefore complement a similar ongoing DFG-funded project on Cryptoprocta ferox to begin contributing important baseline data on carnivore social evolution.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants