Single components of complex chemical signals convey sex identity and individual variation

Chemical signals, such as those used in social communication, are often present complex blends of compounds, suggesting that complexity is important signal perception. Very few studies, however, have examined the interactions between different components signals signalling. In Mysore day gecko, Cnemaspis mysoriensis , secretions males sufficient to elicit a behavioural response females and these male differ from presence two key chemical compounds: cholesterol squalene. This provided us with an opportunity determine functions individual multicomponent signal. First, using tongue flick assays, we established both independently females, but not males. When presented mix, levels were similar shown towards components, thereby indicating squalene redundant components. Moreover, female responses matched their level natural secretions, confirming sex identity gradient stimulus concentrations, males, incrementally adjusted levels. Further, regardless whether or was at higher relative concentration stimulus. These last sets results indicate overall concentration, ratio squalene, has potential encode information about quality. Lack by compounds across experiments strongly role intersexual, intrasexual, communication. Overall, show sex-specific effective communicating sexual conspecific females. • contain Only respond ways redundancy. Cholesterol signals. Dose-dependent for be mate assessment