A molecular analysis of African lion (Panthera leo) mating structure and extra-group paternity in Etosha National Park

The recent incorporation of molecular methods into analyses of social and mating systems has provided evidence that mating patterns often differ from those predicted by group social organization. Based on field studies and paternity analyses at a limited number of sites, African lions are predicted to exhibit a strict within-pride mating system. Extra-group paternity has not been previously reported in African lions; however, observations of extra-group associations among lions inhabiting Etosha National Park in Namibia suggest deviation from the predicted within-pride mating pattern. We analyzed variation in 14 microsatellite loci in a population of 164 African lions in Etosha National Park. Genetic analysis was coupled with demographic and observational data to examine pride structure, relatedness, and extra-group paternity (EGP). EGP was found to occur in 57% of prides where paternity was analyzed (n = 7) and the overall rate of EGP in this population was 41% (n = 34). Group sex rati...