Subjective resource value affects aggressive behavior independently of resource-holding-potential and color morphs in male common wall lizard

Abstract Game theory models predict the outcome of a dyadic contest to depend on opponents’ asymmetries in three main traits: resource-holding potential (RHP), resource value (RV) and aggressiveness. Using male common wall lizards Podarcis muralis , polymorphic species showing discrete morphs (white, yellow, red), we investigated how aggressive behavior varies according change subjective RV color morphs, while controlling for asymmetry RHP (using mirrors). By comparing aggression same individual towards its mirror image two different arenas (familiar = high RV; novel low RV), showed that lizard was more intense prolonged familiar arena than new one, thus supporting occurrence direct relationship between motivation this species. We also found overall aggressiveness differ from individual, general hypothesis is trait associated with personality. contrast, no effect detected, ruling out morph specific variation Our results highlight an individual’s personality might be as important resolution animal contests.