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Table 2 Predictive framework and results

From: Evolution of the ungulate dewlap: thermoregulation rather than sexual selection or predator deterrence?

Predictions

Support?

Source

H1: Sexual selection hypothesis

  

P1: SSD predicts the presence of dewlaps (interspecific)

No

This study

P2: Dewlap size predicts dominance status (intraspecific)

‘Yes’, but not after control for age

Bro-Jørgensen & Beeston (2015)

P3: Dewlap size predicts master bull status (intraspecific)

No

Bro-Jørgensen & Beeston (2015)

H2: Predator deterrence hypothesis

  

P1: Large dewlap size predicts the absence of claw-marks (intraspecific)

No, the opposite

This study

P2: If condition-dependent handicap, scars from predation attempts present on dewlaps (intraspecific)

No

This study

H3: Thermoregulation hypothesis

  

P1: Large body size predicts the presence of dewlaps (interspecific)

Yes (threshold approx. 400 kg)

This study