What dietary source provides the carotenoids for male *Emberiza citrinella* plumage?

Answer

Carotenoids obtained through diet

The striking, vibrant yellow coloration displayed by the male Yellowhammer is directly dependent upon its nutritional intake. The yellow pigments are derived specifically from carotenoids, which the bird must consume through its food sources, indicating that the bird cannot synthesize this color internally. This reliance on dietary carotenoids means that the intensity of a male's plumage serves as a highly visible signal of fitness. Males exhibiting brighter, more intensely yellow feathers typically achieve higher social status and are more successful in securing superior breeding territories. Consequently, the ability to maintain peak coloration reflects strong foraging prowess and overall genetic quality, making it a key element in sexual selection.

What dietary source provides the carotenoids for male *Emberiza citrinella* plumage?

Related Questions

What mnemonic describes the Yellowhammer song across its range?What military insignia inspired the "Yellowhammer" nickname for Alabama Confederate troops?What dietary source provides the carotenoids for male *Emberiza citrinella* plumage?What primary factor links to the rapid Yellowhammer population decline in the UK?To which family does the Yellowhammer, *Emberiza citrinella*, belong?Which subspecies, showing darker plumage, is found in Ireland?What landscape feature facilitates more shared song elements among Yellowhammer groups?How does the male Yellowhammer's appearance contrast during the breeding season?Which factor exerts a faster selective pressure on the Yellowhammer than genetic drift in song dialects?In what year was the Yellowhammer officially designated as the state bird of Alabama?
speciesbirdevolutionYellowhammer