The genetic basis of behavior is rarely studied in lizards but is of considerable importance to both conservation and evolutionary biology. Specifically, the mechanisms of mate choice and inbreeding avoidance behaviors in lizards are largely unknown. However, the role of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in mate choice is well documented in mice, men and a range of other species. MHC determined scent has been shown to be important in mate choice with MHC preference facilitating the avoidance of mating betweens close kin in several species.

This study investigates MHC and mate choice for Cunningham’s Skink (Egerina Cunninghami), a monogamous species with low dispersal and strong inbreeding avoidance. MHC will be investigated as a possible basis for mate choice within E. cunninghami using a large multigenerational sample with known pedigrees. The analysis of the effect of MHC type on mate choice in an entirely wild population where multigenerational pedigrees have been establish allows for powerful comparisons of MHC genotypes and mating structures.

This study will offer insight into the affects of habitat fragmentation on mate choice and mating systems, increase the knowledge of evolution of MHC/mate choice systems and the plasticity of sexual selective behaviors.