A study on the behaviour of the insects found that Male burying beetles that mate more frequently are more insecure regarding their social status as compared to those mating less.

New evidence has been provided by the study that the social sensitivity of male behaviour is associated to how frequently male beetles mate. According to researchers, male burying beetles compete with each other for access to breeding resources like dead mice. When suitable carcass is found by them then they will emit pheromones as a signal so that females can get attracted.

There is a possibility that emission of pheromones could also attract other males and that leads to competition for the females.

Nick Royle of the University of Exeter, Britain said that findings of the study provide helpful insights that how behavioural plasticity develops. As per the researchers, success in this competition is determined by size. Dominant male and female pair known as resource holders are normally established. Male and female use the carcass for reproducing and raising their young.

According to the reserachers, females and males who are not resource holders can take on alternative reproductive methods so that they can boost the probability of their reproductive success.

Subordinate females could lay eggs near the carcass and subordinate males accept a satellite tactic, sneaking copulations with females.

“Our research increases our understanding of this important process that helps organisms adapt to changes in their environment”, said co-researcher Mauricio Carter.