Model
Digital Document
Publisher
Florida Atlantic University
Description
This study examined the coefficients of association (COAs) of Atlantic spotted
dolphins, Stenellafrontalis, in the Bahamas that have been part of a long-term
underwater observational study since 1985. First, three social units were designated based
on analysis of association indices. The units appeared to coincide with clusters of
individuals with similar ranges; however, there were insufficient ranging data to
determine whether the social units were separate geographical units. The associations
within and between these social units were analyzed to determine whether the units
comprised separate communities. Results indicated that separate communities did not
exist. Analysis of association indices of the 26 individuals with known relatives
demonstrated that there is preferential association among kin. Also, effects of social
segregation based on sex and age class, which are evident in the population as a whole,
are absent in kin dyads.
dolphins, Stenellafrontalis, in the Bahamas that have been part of a long-term
underwater observational study since 1985. First, three social units were designated based
on analysis of association indices. The units appeared to coincide with clusters of
individuals with similar ranges; however, there were insufficient ranging data to
determine whether the social units were separate geographical units. The associations
within and between these social units were analyzed to determine whether the units
comprised separate communities. Results indicated that separate communities did not
exist. Analysis of association indices of the 26 individuals with known relatives
demonstrated that there is preferential association among kin. Also, effects of social
segregation based on sex and age class, which are evident in the population as a whole,
are absent in kin dyads.
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