Fluctuating Asymmetry of Fallow Deer Antlers Is Associated with Weapon Damage but Not Tactical Behaviour during Fights

The horns and antlers borne by the males of many species ungulate are considered to be both badges quality, armaments for use during intraspecific combat. Underpinning arguments concerning their dual utility is idea that these structures should costly produce in order signal value structure maintained. In agreement with such theorising belief fluctuating asymmetry (FA), small deviations from symmetry around a mean zero, measures individual quality as it represents ability withstand stress. We investigated whether fallow deer indicated something bearer assessing degree antler FA was associated breakage (i.e., badge quality) or tactical investment fighting armament). show anticipated relationship between damage, however, there no contest tactics. present study, therefore, shows partial support magnitude expressed weaponry related quality.