Does the combination of embryonic diapause and superfoetation occur in the stoat Mustela erminea? A reinterpretation of existing data. (5th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dean, Rebecca; Yamaguchi, Nobuyuki
• Is Part Of: Mammal review. Volume 50:Number 4(2020)
• Page Start: 331
• Page End: 335
• Publication Date: 2020-08-05
• Subjects: blastocyst -- corpora lutea -- embryonic diapause -- Mustelidae -- pregnancy -- reproductive strategy -- superfoetation; Mammals -- Periodicals; 599
• DOI: 10.1111/mam.12217
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-1838

Abstract

Abstract: Superfoetation is when ovulation and fertilisation occur during pregnancy. Coupled with embryonic diapause, superfoetation presents an intriguing female reproductive advantage in terms of cryptic choice of males. Unfortunately, few studies have identified species possessing both superfoetation and embryonic diapause. We aim to reinterpret existing data on reproductive physiology in the stoat Mustela erminea and suggest it may be a previously overlooked species that possesses this combination. By increasing our knowledge of such reproductive systems, we can further our understanding of a cryptic sexually selected function and better explain the evolutionary gain and loss of embryonic diapause in mammals. Abstract : Most female stoats Mustela erminea have mated by May, but the embryo does not implant until the following March. Birth takes place in April. From birth to implantation there is a period of 10 months in which a female stoat may mate successfully more than once, if the combination of embryonic diapause and superfoetation – ovulation and fertilisation during pregnancy – occurs. A female could receive benefits of mate choice from this extended window of opportunity for mating, including reducing the risk of being monopolised by a 'low‐quality' male who may succeed in mate‐guarding her if the mating window lasted only for a short period of time.