Female mate choice in the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata) influences offspring sex ratio, but not fecundity

Obtaining a suitable mate is an integral part of reproduction, with sexual selection processes such as female choice resulting in both direct and/or indirect benefits. Here, we investigated whether olfactory driven influenced reproductive success captive fat-tailed dunnarts (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). Although females spent 67% more time preferred male’s scent, was not by assigned choice. Of the 10 (of 12) litters that survived to weaning, average litter size higher for non-preferred pairings (3 ± 0.83) compared (1.6 0.60), weaning equal pairings. Analyses suggested offspring sex ratios were choice, paired their having daughters (81%) comparison (44%) and paternal body condition, whereby males better condition produced sons. In this species, altering favour may be achieved pairing males, towards sons condition. With increasing need breeding programs, these techniques provide opportunities correct ratio biases incorporate natural mating systems into conservation programs.