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Weiß BM, Birkemeyer C, Kücklich M, Widdig A. Chemical signatures of social information in Barbary macaques. Sci Rep 2025; 15:1902. [PMID: 39805877 PMCID: PMC11730623 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-84619-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 12/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Primates are well-known for their complex social lives and intricate social relationships, which requires them to obtain and update social knowledge about conspecifics. The sense of smell may provide access to social information that is unavailable in other sensory domains or enhance the precision and reliability of other sensory cues. However, the cognition of social information in catarrhine primates has been studied primarily in the visual and auditory domain. We assessed the social information content of body odor in a catarrhine primate, the Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), in three semi-free ranging groups at Affenberg Salem, Germany. In particular, we related socially relevant attributes (identity, genetic relatedness, rank, sex, age, group membership) to chemical profiles of body odor. We applied non-invasive active sampling via thermal desorption tubes and analyzed samples by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We found robust evidence for individual odor signatures and limited support for kin signatures. Chemical profiles were also related to group membership, but little to rank, sex or age. The detected associations between chemical profiles and socially relevant attributes form the theoretical foundations for olfactory information transfer, highlighting the potential of body odor to provide valuable social information in this highly visually oriented primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte M Weiß
- Behavioural Ecology Group, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Talstraße 33, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
- Department of Human Behaviour, Ecology and Culture, Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Claudia Birkemeyer
- now Claudia Wiesner, Mass Spectrometry Group, Institute of Analytical Chemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Marlen Kücklich
- Behavioural Ecology Group, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Talstraße 33, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Human Behaviour, Ecology and Culture, Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Widdig
- Behavioural Ecology Group, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Talstraße 33, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Human Behaviour, Ecology and Culture, Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
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2
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Stranks J, Heistermann M, Sangmaneedet S, Schülke O, Ostner J. The dynamics of sociality and glucocorticoids in wild male Assamese macaques. Horm Behav 2024; 164:105604. [PMID: 39013354 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
For males of gregarious species, dominance status and the strength of affiliative relationships can have major fitness consequences. Social dynamics also impose costs by affecting glucocorticoids, mediators of homeostasis and indicators of the physiological response to challenges and within-group competition. We investigated the relationships between dominance, social bonds, seasonal challenges, and faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGC) measures in wild Assamese macaques (Macaca assamensis) at Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand, combining behavioural data with 4129 samples from 62 adult males over 15 years. Our previous work on this population suggested that increased competition during the mating season was associated with elevated fGC levels and that, unusually for male primates, lower rank position correlated with higher fGC levels. With a much larger dataset and dynamic measures of sociality, we re-examined these relationships and additionally tested the potentially fGC-attenuating effect of social support. Contrary to our previous study, yet consistent with the majority of work on male primates, dominance rank had a positive relationship with fGC levels, as high status correlated with elevated glucocorticoid measures. fGC levels were increased at the onset of the mating season. We demonstrated an fGC-reducing effect of supportive relationships in males and showed that dynamics in affiliation can correlate with dynamics in physiological responses. Our results suggest that in a system with intermediate contest potential, high dominance status can impose physiological costs on males that may potentially be moderated by social relationships. We highlight the need to consider the dynamics of sociality and competition that influence hormonal processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Stranks
- Behavioral Ecology Department, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Michael Heistermann
- Endocrinology Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Somboon Sangmaneedet
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Behavioral Ecology Department, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Behavioral Ecology Department, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
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3
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Testard C, Tremblay S, Parodi F, DiTullio RW, Acevedo-Ithier A, Gardiner KL, Kording K, Platt ML. Neural signatures of natural behaviour in socializing macaques. Nature 2024; 628:381-390. [PMID: 38480888 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07178-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Our understanding of the neurobiology of primate behaviour largely derives from artificial tasks in highly controlled laboratory settings, overlooking most natural behaviours that primate brains evolved to produce1-3. How primates navigate the multidimensional social relationships that structure daily life4 and shape survival and reproductive success5 remains largely unclear at the single-neuron level. Here we combine ethological analysis, computer vision and wireless recording technologies to identify neural signatures of natural behaviour in unrestrained, socially interacting pairs of rhesus macaques. Single-neuron and population activity in the prefrontal and temporal cortex robustly encoded 24 species-typical behaviours, as well as social context. Male-female partners demonstrated near-perfect reciprocity in grooming, a key behavioural mechanism supporting friendships and alliances6, and neural activity maintained a running account of these social investments. Confronted with an aggressive intruder, behavioural and neural population responses reflected empathy and were buffered by the presence of a partner. Our findings reveal a highly distributed neurophysiological ledger of social dynamics, a potential computational foundation supporting communal life in primate societies, including our own.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Testard
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Sébastien Tremblay
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Felipe Parodi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ron W DiTullio
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Kristin L Gardiner
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Konrad Kording
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael L Platt
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Marketing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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4
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Formaux A, Sperber D, Fagot J, Claidière N. Guinea baboons are strategic cooperators. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi5282. [PMID: 37889969 PMCID: PMC10610893 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi5282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Humans are strategic cooperators; we make decisions on the basis of costs and benefits to maintain high levels of cooperation, and this is thought to have played a key role in human evolution. In comparison, monkeys and apes might lack the cognitive capacities necessary to develop flexible forms of cooperation. We show that Guinea baboons (Papio papio) can use direct reciprocity and partner choice to develop and maintain high levels of cooperation in a prosocial choice task. Our findings demonstrate that monkeys have the cognitive capacities to adjust their level of cooperation strategically using a combination of partner choice and partner control strategies. Such capacities were likely present in our common ancestor and would have provided the foundations for the evolution of typically human forms of cooperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Formaux
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive, UMR7290, Université Aix-Marseille/CNRS, Marseille, France
- Station de Primatologie-Celphedia, CNRS UAR846, Rousset, France
| | - Dan Sperber
- Central European University, Wien, Austria
- Institut Jean Nicod, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris, France
| | - Joël Fagot
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive, UMR7290, Université Aix-Marseille/CNRS, Marseille, France
- Station de Primatologie-Celphedia, CNRS UAR846, Rousset, France
- Institute for Language, Communication and the Brain, Université Aix-Marseille, CNRS, Aix-en-Provence, France
| | - Nicolas Claidière
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive, UMR7290, Université Aix-Marseille/CNRS, Marseille, France
- Station de Primatologie-Celphedia, CNRS UAR846, Rousset, France
- Institute for Language, Communication and the Brain, Université Aix-Marseille, CNRS, Aix-en-Provence, France
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5
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Testard C, Tremblay S, Parodi F, DiTullio RW, Acevedo-Ithier A, Gardiner K, Kording KP, Platt M. Neural signatures of natural behavior in socializing macaques. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.05.547833. [PMID: 37461580 PMCID: PMC10349985 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.05.547833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Our understanding of the neurobiology of primate behavior largely derives from artificial tasks in highly-controlled laboratory settings, overlooking most natural behaviors primate brains evolved to produce1. In particular, how primates navigate the multidimensional social relationships that structure daily life and shape survival and reproductive success remains largely unexplored at the single neuron level. Here, we combine ethological analysis with new wireless recording technologies to uncover neural signatures of natural behavior in unrestrained, socially interacting pairs of rhesus macaques within a larger colony. Population decoding of single neuron activity in prefrontal and temporal cortex unveiled robust encoding of 24 species-typical behaviors, which was strongly modulated by the presence and identity of surrounding monkeys. Male-female partners demonstrated near-perfect reciprocity in grooming, a key behavioral mechanism supporting friendships and alliances, and neural activity maintained a running account of these social investments. When confronted with an aggressive intruder, behavioral and neural population responses reflected empathy and were buffered by the presence of a partner. Surprisingly, neural signatures in prefrontal and temporal cortex were largely indistinguishable and irreducible to visual and motor contingencies. By employing an ethological approach to the study of primate neurobiology, we reveal a highly-distributed neurophysiological record of social dynamics, a potential computational foundation supporting communal life in primate societies, including our own.
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6
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Tolliver JD, Kupán K, Lank DB, Schindler S, Küpper C. Fitness benefits from co-display favour subdominant male–male partnerships between phenotypes. Anim Behav 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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7
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Smith JE, Jaeggi AV, Holmes RK, Silk JB. Sex differences in cooperative coalitions: a mammalian perspective. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20210426. [PMID: 36440559 PMCID: PMC9703251 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In group-living species, cooperative tactics can offset asymmetries in resource-holding potential between individuals and alter the outcome of intragroup conflicts. Differences in the kinds of competitive pressures that males and females face might influence the benefits they gain from forming intragroup coalitions. We predicted that there would be a female bias in intragroup coalitions because females (1) are more like to live with kin than males are, and (2) compete over resources that are more readily shared than resources males compete over. We tested this main prediction using information about coalition formation across mammalian species and phylogenetic comparative analyses. We found that for nearly all species in which intragroup coalitions occur, members of both sexes participate, making this the typical mammalian pattern. The presence and frequency of female or male coalitions were not strongly associated with key socio-ecological factors like resource defensibility, sexual dimorphism or philopatry. This suggests that once the ability to form intragroup coalitions emerges in one sex, it is likely to emerge in the other sex as well and that there is no strong phylogenetic legacy of sex differences in this form of cooperation. This article is part of the theme issue 'Cooperation among women: evolutionary and cross-cultural perspectives'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Smith
- Biology Department, University of Wisconsin Eau Claire, 105 Garfield Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54702, USA
- Biology Department, Mills College, 5000 MacArthur Boulevard, Oakland, CA 94631, USA
| | - Adrian V. Jaeggi
- Institute of Evolutionary Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Rose K. Holmes
- Biology Department, University of Wisconsin Eau Claire, 105 Garfield Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54702, USA
| | - Joan B. Silk
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Institute of Human Origins, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-2402, USA
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Strauss ED, Shizuka D. The dynamics of dominance: open questions, challenges and solutions. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20200445. [PMID: 35000440 PMCID: PMC8743878 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although social hierarchies are recognized as dynamic systems, they are typically treated as static entities for practical reasons. Here, we ask what we can learn from a dynamical view of dominance, and provide a research agenda for the next decades. We identify five broad questions at the individual, dyadic and group levels, exploring the causes and consequences of individual changes in rank, the dynamics underlying dyadic dominance relationships, and the origins and impacts of social instability. Although challenges remain, we propose avenues for overcoming them. We suggest distinguishing between different types of social mobility to provide conceptual clarity about hierarchy dynamics at the individual level, and emphasize the need to explore how these dynamic processes produce dominance trajectories over individual lifespans and impact selection on status-seeking behaviour. At the dyadic level, there is scope for deeper exploration of decision-making processes leading to observed interactions, and how stable but malleable relationships emerge from these interactions. Across scales, model systems where rank is manipulable will be extremely useful for testing hypotheses about dominance dynamics. Long-term individual-based studies will also be critical for understanding the impact of rare events, and for interrogating dynamics that unfold over lifetimes and generations. This article is part of the theme issue 'The centennial of the pecking order: current state and future prospects for the study of dominance hierarchies'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli D. Strauss
- Department of Collective Behavior, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz, Germany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
- BEACON Center for the Study of Evolution in Action, Michigan State University, Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Daizaburo Shizuka
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
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9
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Wooddell LJ, Beisner BA, Nathman AC, Day A, Cameron A, Pomerantz O, McCowan B. Sex Differences in Hierarchical Stability in a Formation of a Mixed-sex Group of Rhesus Macaques. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2022; 61:67-74. [PMID: 34903314 PMCID: PMC8786381 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-jaalas-21-000067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Forming groups of captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) is a common management practice. New formations of unfamiliar macaques can be costly, with high levels of trauma, particularly as intense aggression is used to establish a dominance hierarchy. Combining previous subgroups into one new group may be beneficial, as some individuals already have established dominance relationships. We tested this hypothesis by forming a new mixed-sex group of rhesus macaques that combined an established group of females with an established group of males. Prior to the mixed-sex group formation, both the female and male hierarchies had been stable for 3 y; after mixed-sex group formation these hierarchies were maintained by the females and were initially maintained by the males for 3 wks. However, the temporary hospitalization (due to a laceration caused by aggression) of the alpha male destabilized the male hierarchy. Age and weight then predicted male rank. Temporary hospitalizations resulted in rank changes for the males, evidenced by reversals in subordination signals. This study indicates that using established groups of familiar individuals may maintain female hierarchical stability in a mixedsex group formation, but further research is needed to understand how to maintain and predict male hierarchical stability to reduce trauma. Improved knowledge of hierarchical stability would be invaluable to managers of large rhesus macaque groups and would help improve the welfare of captive rhesus macaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Wooddell
- Colony Management Department, Yerkes National Primate Research Center Field Station, Lawrenceville, Georgia
| | - Brianne A Beisner
- Colony Management Department, Yerkes National Primate Research Center Field Station, Lawrenceville, Georgia
| | - Amy C Nathman
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Ashleigh Day
- Population Behavioral Health Services, California National Primate Research Center, Davis, California
| | - Ashley Cameron
- Population Behavioral Health Services, California National Primate Research Center, Davis, California
| | - Ori Pomerantz
- Population Behavioral Health Services, California National Primate Research Center, Davis, California
| | - Brenda McCowan
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
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10
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Gareta García M, Farine DR, Brachotte C, Borgeaud C, Bshary R. Wild female vervet monkeys change grooming patterns and partners when freed from feeding constraints. Anim Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2021.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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11
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Gartland KN, Biggs N, Shreeve CM, White FJ. Dominance rank, female choice, and reproductive success in semi-free ranging adult male Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata). Am J Primatol 2021; 83:e23294. [PMID: 34157137 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The assumed evolutionary advantage of dominance is increased reproductive success. However, the efficacy of dominance as a mating strategy may be interrupted by any number of variables including female choice, estrous synchrony, and mating by non-troop males. In Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata), there is evidence both for and against dominance as conferring reproductive success for adult males, with many discussions pointing to the importance of female choice in governing reproductive success in certain populations. In this study, we aimed to evaluate dominance-based versus female choice-based male behavioral strategies and their impact on reproductive success. This study was conducted on a group of Japanese macaques at the Oregon National Primate Research Center. We collected a total of 512 h of behavioral data across two summer study periods in 2018 and 2019. We conducted 15-min focal follows with 1-min instantaneous scans on 17 adult males. Reproductive data were available from genetic records. Using principal components analysis (PCA), we identified males that cluster according to similar behavioral strategies. We then used analysis of variance (ANOVA) and non-parametric ANOVA on ranks to ascertain significant variation in rank and reproductive success between clusters. We found that males that clustered based on high directed aggression held higher rank than less-aggressive male clusters (F = 27.21, df = 4, p < .0001). However, less aggressive male clusters had higher reproductive success (F = 3.50, df = 4, p = .04). There was no variation between affiliative clusters in reproductive success (F = 1.77, df = 3, p = .15). The highly aggressive strategy is effective for attaining high rank, but only resulted in high reproductive success for a single male which likely necessitates alternative strategies. We suggest the operation of female choice within this population, with females preferentially mating with males who are not only affiliative but also less aggressive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylen N Gartland
- Department of Anthropology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA
| | - Nichole Biggs
- Department of Anthropology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA
| | - Caitlin M Shreeve
- Department of Anthropology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA
| | - Frances J White
- Department of Anthropology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA
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12
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The Function of Mounts in Free-Ranging Barbary Macaques (Macaca sylvanus). INT J PRIMATOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-021-00210-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractGenerally, nonreproductive sex is thought to act as “social grease,” facilitating peaceful coexistence between subjects that lack close genetic ties. However, specifc nonreproductive sexual behaviors may fulfill different functions. With this study, we aimed to test whether nonreproductive mounts in Barbary macaques are used to 1) assert dominance, 2) reinforce social relationships, and/or 3) solve conflicts. We analyzed nonreproductive mounts (N = 236) and postmount behavior in both aggressive and nonaggressive contexts, in 118 individuals belonging to two semi-free-ranging groups at La Montagne des Singes (France). As predicted by the dominance assertion hypothesis, the probability to be the mounter increased with rank difference, especially in aggressive contexts (increasing from 0.066 to 0.797 in nonaggressive contexts, and from 0.011 to 0.969 in aggressive contexts, when the rank difference was minimal vs. maximal). The strength of the social bond did not significantly predict the proportion of mounts across dyads in nonaggressive contexts, providing no support for the relationship reinforcement hypothesis. Finally, in support of the conflict resolution hypothesis, when individuals engaged in postconflict mounts, 1) the probability of being involved in further aggression decreased from 0.825 to 0.517, while 2) the probability of being involved in grooming interactions with each other increased from 0.119 to 0.606. The strength of the social bond between former opponents had no significant effect on grooming occurrence and agonistic behavior after postconflict mounts. Overall, our findings suggest that nonreproductive mounts in Barbary macaques have different functions that are not affected by the strength of the social bond.
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13
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Pandit SA, Pradhan GR, van Schaik CP. Why Class Formation Occurs in Humans but Not among Other Primates : A Primate Coalitions Model. HUMAN NATURE-AN INTERDISCIPLINARY BIOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVE 2021; 31:155-173. [PMID: 32676890 DOI: 10.1007/s12110-020-09370-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Most human societies exhibit a distinct class structure, with an elite, middle classes, and a bottom class, whereas animals form simple dominance hierarchies in which individuals with higher fighting ability do not appear to form coalitions to "oppress" weaker individuals. Here, we extend our model of primate coalitions and find that a division into a bottom class and an upper class is inevitable whenever fitness-enhancing resources, such as food or real estate, are exploitable or tradable and the members of the bottom class cannot easily leave the group. The model predicts that the bottom class has a near flat, low payoff and always comprises at least half the society. The upper class may subdivide into one or more middle class(es), resulting in improved payoff for the topmost members (elite). The model predicts that the bottom class on its own is incapable of mounting effective counter-coalitions against the upper class, except when receiving support from dissatisfied members of the middle class(es). Such counter-coalitions can be prevented by keeping the payoff to the lowest-ranked members of the middle classes (through concessions) well above that of the bottom class. This simple model explains why classes are also absent in nomadic hunter-gatherers and predominate in (though are not limited to) societies that produce and store food. Its results also agree well with various other known features of societies with classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagar A Pandit
- Department of Physics, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Gauri R Pradhan
- Department of Physics, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA.
| | - Carel P van Schaik
- Department of Anthropology, University of Zurich, CH-8051, Zurich, Switzerland
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14
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Gerber L, Wittwer S, Allen SJ, Holmes KG, King SL, Sherwin WB, Wild S, Willems EP, Connor RC, Krützen M. Cooperative partner choice in multi-level male dolphin alliances. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6901. [PMID: 33767258 PMCID: PMC7994371 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85583-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Investigations into cooperative partner choice should consider both potential and realised partners, allowing for the comparison of traits across all those available. Male bottlenose dolphins form persisting multi-level alliances. Second-order alliances of 4–14 males are the core social unit, within which 2–3 males form first-order alliances to sequester females during consortships. We compared social bond strength, relatedness and age similarity of potential and realised partners of individual males in two age periods: (i) adolescence, when second-order alliances are formed from all available associates, and (ii) adulthood, when first-order allies are selected from within second-order alliances. Social bond strength during adolescence predicted second-order alliance membership in adulthood. Moreover, males preferred same-aged or older males as second-order allies. Within second-order alliances, non-mating season social bond strength predicted first-order partner preferences during mating season consortships. Relatedness did not influence partner choice on either alliance level. There is thus a striking resemblance between male dolphins, chimpanzees and humans, where closely bonded non-relatives engage in higher-level, polyadic cooperative acts. To that end, our study extends the scope of taxa in which social bonds rather than kinship explain cooperation, providing the first evidence that such traits might have evolved independently in marine and terrestrial realms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Gerber
- Evolutionary Genetics Group, Department of Anthropology, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Samuel Wittwer
- Evolutionary Genetics Group, Department of Anthropology, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon J Allen
- Evolutionary Genetics Group, Department of Anthropology, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK.,School of Biological Sciences and Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Kathryn G Holmes
- School of Biological Sciences and Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Stephanie L King
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK.,School of Biological Sciences and Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - William B Sherwin
- Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Sonja Wild
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78464, Konstanz, Germany.,Cognitive and Cultural Ecology Research Group, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, 78315, Radolfzell, Germany
| | - Erik P Willems
- Evolutionary Genetics Group, Department of Anthropology, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard C Connor
- Biology Department, UMASS Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, MA, 02747, USA
| | - Michael Krützen
- Evolutionary Genetics Group, Department of Anthropology, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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15
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Mielke A, Bruchmann C, Schülke O, Ostner J. Grooming interventions in female rhesus macaques as social niche construction. Anim Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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16
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Association between social factors and gastrointestinal parasite product excretion in a group of non-cooperatively breeding carrion crows. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-021-02967-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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17
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Kin bias and male pair-bond status shape male-male relationships in a multilevel primate society. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-020-02960-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMale-male social relationships in group-living mammals vary from fierce competition to the formation of opportunistic coalitions or the development of long-lasting bonds. We investigated male-male relationships in Guinea baboons (Papio papio), a species characterized by male-male tolerance and affiliation. Guinea baboons live in a multi-level society, with units of one reproductively active “primary” male, 1–6 females, and offspring at the core level. Together with “bachelor” males, several units form a party, and 2–3 parties constitute a gang. We aimed to clarify to which degree male relationship patterns varied with relatedness and pair-bond status, i.e., whether males had primary or bachelor status. Data were collected from 24 males in two parties of Guinea baboons near Simenti in the Niokolo-Koba National Park in Senegal. Males maintained differentiated and equitable affiliative relationships (“strong bonds”) with other males that were stable over a 4-year period, irrespective of their pair-bond status. Remarkably, most bachelor males maintained strong bonds with multiple primary males, indicating that bachelor males play an important role in the cohesion of the parties. A clear male dominance hierarchy could not be established due to the high degree of uncertainty in individual rank scores, yet bachelor males were more likely to be found at the low end of the dominance hierarchy. Average relatedness was significantly higher between strongly bonded males, suggesting that kin biases contribute to the social preferences of males. Long-term data will be needed to test how male bonds affect male tenure and ultimately reproductive success.Significance statementMales living in social groups may employ different strategies to increase their reproductive success, from fierce fighting to opportunistic alliance formation or the development of long-term bonds. To shed light on the factors that shape male strategies, we investigated male-male social relationships in the multilevel society of Guinea baboons (Papio papio) where “primary” males are associated with a small number of females and their offspring in “units” while other males are “bachelors.” Strong bonds occurred among and between primary and bachelor males and strongly bonded males were, on average, more closely related. Bachelor males typically had multiple bond partners and thus play an important role in the fabric of Guinea baboon societies. Across primate species, neither dispersal patterns nor social organization clearly map onto the presence of strong bonds in males, suggesting multiple routes to the evolution of male bonds.
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Rincon AV, Heistermann M, Schülke O, Ostner J. Testosterone and cortisol are negatively associated with ritualized bonding behavior in male macaques. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 120:104774. [PMID: 32574857 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine research on the formation of social bonds has primarily focused on the role of nonapeptides. However, steroid hormones often act simultaneously to either inhibit or facilitate bonding. Testosterone is proposed to mediate a trade-off between male mating effort and nurturing behavior; therefore, low levels are predicted during periods of nurturing infant care and social bonding. In species where social bonding and support regulates hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, we also expect glucocorticoid levels to be low during bonding periods. We investigated how immunoreactive urinary testosterone (iuT) and cortisol (iuC) were related to triadic male-infant-male interactions - a ritualized male bonding behavior - as well as infant care in male Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus). We collected >3000 h of behavioral observation data during full-day focal animal follows from 14 adult males and quantified iuT and iuC from 650 urine samples. iuT was negatively correlated with rates of triadic interactions within subjects, but positively correlated between subjects. iuC was negatively correlated with triadic interactions both within and between subjects. Time spent caring for infants was positively correlated to both iuT and iuC within subjects, but not between subjects. The observed negative relationship between iuT and triadic interactions within subjects may be beneficial to lower competitive tendencies between adult males and to not inhibit bond formation. However, the positive correlation of iuT with triadic interactions between subjects was unexpected. We speculate that it could be due to a link between triadic interactions and coalition formation. A negative relationship between triadic interactions and iuC could reflect increased bonding and perceived social support as triadic interactions predict future coalition formation in this species, or reflect buffered tensions between males. The positive relationship of iuT and iuC with infant care suggests that the handling of infants may be less nurturing but rather protective or competitive in this species. Measuring steroid hormones in relation to bonding and nurturing can help us interpret behaviors within the ecological contexts that they occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan V Rincon
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Michael Heistermann
- Endocrinology Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany; Research Group Social Evolution in Primates, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany; Research Group Social Evolution in Primates, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
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19
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De Moor D, Roos C, Ostner J, Schülke O. Bonds of bros and brothers: Kinship and social bonding in postdispersal male macaques. Mol Ecol 2020; 29:3346-3360. [PMID: 32688434 DOI: 10.1111/mec.15560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Group-living animals often maintain a few very close affiliative relationships-social bonds-that can buffer them against many of the inevitable costs of gregariousness. Kinship plays a central role in the development of such social bonds. The bulk of research on kin biases in sociality has focused on philopatric females, who typically live in deeply kin-structured systems, with matrilineal dominance rank inheritance and life-long familiarity between kin. Closely related males, in contrast, are usually not close in rank or familiar, which offers the opportunity to test the importance of kinship per se in the formation of social bonds. So far, however, kin biases in male social bonding have only been tested in philopatric males, where familiarity remains a confounding factor. Here, we studied bonds between male Assamese macaques, a species in which males disperse from their natal groups and in which male bonds are known to affect fitness. Combining extensive behavioural data on 43 adult males over a 10-year period with DNA microsatellite relatedness analyses, we find that postdispersal males form stronger relationships with the few close kin available in the group than with the average nonkin. However, males form the majority of their bonds with nonkin and may choose nonkin over available close kin to bond with. Our results show that kinship facilitates bond formation, but is not a prerequisite for it, which suggests that strong bonds are not restricted to kin in male mammals and that animals cooperate for both direct and indirect fitness benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine De Moor
- Department of Behavioural Ecology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Primate Genetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
- Leibniz-ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany
- Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Christian Roos
- Primate Genetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department of Behavioural Ecology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Leibniz-ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany
- Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department of Behavioural Ecology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Leibniz-ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany
- Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
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20
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Kawazoe T. Male-male social bonds predict tolerance but not coalition formation in wild Japanese macaques. Primates 2020; 62:91-101. [PMID: 32572696 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-020-00838-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Social bonds have been construed as differentiated and enduring affiliative relationships. Strong bonds will improve fitness through interchanging with coalition formation or tolerance over resources. Social bonds have been found in a variety of taxa and predict the formation of coalitions even amongst males. However, in species exhibiting steeply linear dominance hierarchies, coalitions are hypothesized to be suppressed due to severe competition amongst males, and thus strong bonds may manifest in other forms of behavior, notably social tolerance. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of male-male social bonds and dominance on agonistic supports and aggressive interaction in one of the most despotic primate species, Japanese macaques. I conducted focal samples on male individuals, recording their grooming, proximity to other members, agonistic supports and membership, and aggressive interactions over a 2-year observation period. Male macaques formed differentiated affiliative relationships across dyads and those relationships showed positive relations between the non-mating and the mating seasons. Steep dominance hierarchies were found amongst males. The occurrence of agonistic supports was not explained by the strength of social bonds but by the dominance of the participants, whereas strong bonds predicted less frequent aggressive interaction. These results are in line with the hypothesis that dominance is a major mechanism underlying coalition formation amongst males. Unlike more egalitarian species, strong bonds do not predict coalition formation but rather tolerance in despotic species. These results suggest male-male social bonds will bring alternative consequences according to dominance structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuro Kawazoe
- Research Institute for Languages and Cultures of Asia and Africa, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, 3-11-1, Asahi-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo, 1838534, Japan. .,School of Sociology and Anthropology, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, XingangXi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Stocker M, Loretto MC, Sterck EHM, Bugnyar T, Massen JJM. Cooperation with closely bonded individuals reduces cortisol levels in long-tailed macaques. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2020; 7:191056. [PMID: 32537186 PMCID: PMC7277283 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.191056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Many animal species cooperate with conspecifics in various social contexts. While ultimate causes of cooperation are being studied extensively, its proximate causes, particularly endocrine mechanisms, have received comparatively little attention. Here, we present a study investigating the link between the hormone cortisol, cooperation and social bonds in long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). We tested 14 macaques in a dyadic cooperation task (loose-string paradigm), each with two partners of different social bond strength and measured their salivary cortisol before and after the task. We found no strong link between the macaques' cortisol level before the task and subsequent cooperative success. By contrast, we did find that the act of cooperating in itself led to a subsequent decrease in cortisol levels, but only when cooperating with closely bonded individuals. Two control conditions showed that this effect was not due to the mere presence of such an individual or the pulling task itself. Consequently, our study shows an intricate way in which the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is involved in cooperation. Future studies should reveal whether and how our findings are driven by the anxiolytic effect of oxytocin, which has been associated with social bonding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Stocker
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Animal Science Department, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Matthias-Claudio Loretto
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Elisabeth H. M. Sterck
- Animal Science Department, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
- Animal Ecology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Bugnyar
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jorg J. M. Massen
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Animal Ecology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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22
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Rincon AV, Deschner T, Schülke O, Ostner J. Oxytocin increases after affiliative interactions in male Barbary macaques. Horm Behav 2020; 119:104661. [PMID: 31883945 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.104661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mammals living in stable social groups often mitigate the costs of group living through the formation of social bonds and cooperative relationships. The neuropeptide hormone oxytocin (OT) is proposed to promote both bonding and cooperation although only a limited number of studies have investigated this under natural conditions. Our aim was to assess the role of OT in bonding and cooperation in male Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus). First, we tested for an effect of affiliation - grooming and triadic male-infant-male interactions - with bond and non-bond partners on urinary OT levels. Second, we tested whether grooming interactions (and thus increased OT levels) increase a male's general propensity to cooperate in polyadic conflicts. We collected >4000 h of behavioral data on 14 adult males and measured OT levels from 139 urine samples collected after affiliation and non-social control periods. Urinary OT levels were higher after grooming with any partner. By contrast, OT levels after male-infant-male interactions with any partner or with bond partners were not different from controls but were higher after interactions with non-bond partners. Previous grooming did not increase the likelihood of males to support others in conflicts. Collectively, our results support research indicating that OT is involved in the regulation of adult affiliative relationships. However, our male-infant-male interaction results contradict previous studies suggesting that it is affiliation with bond rather than non-bond partners that trigger the release of OT. Alternatively, OT levels were elevated prior to male-infant-male interactions thus facilitating interaction between non-bond partners. The lack of an association of grooming and subsequent support speaks against an OT linked increase in the general propensity to cooperate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan V Rincon
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Tobias Deschner
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany; Research Group Social Evolution in Primates, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany; Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Goettingen, Germany; Research Group Social Evolution in Primates, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Goettingen, Germany
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23
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Wascher CA, Canestrari D, Baglione V. Affiliative social relationships and coccidian oocyst excretion in a cooperatively breeding bird species. Anim Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2019.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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25
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26
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Schweinfurth MK, Aeschbacher J, Santi M, Taborsky M. Male Norway rats cooperate according to direct but not generalized reciprocity rules. Anim Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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27
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Müller-Klein N, Heistermann M, Strube C, Morbach ZM, Lilie N, Franz M, Schülke O, Ostner J. Physiological and social consequences of gastrointestinal nematode infection in a nonhuman primate. Behav Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/ary168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Müller-Klein
- Department for Behavioral Ecology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael Heistermann
- Endocrinology Laboratory, German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Zina M Morbach
- Department for Behavioral Ecology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Roehampton, Parkstead House, Whitelands, London, UK
| | - Navina Lilie
- Department for Behavioral Ecology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department for Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Mathias Franz
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department for Behavioral Ecology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department for Behavioral Ecology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
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28
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A neural network for intermale aggression to establish social hierarchy. Nat Neurosci 2018; 21:834-842. [DOI: 10.1038/s41593-018-0153-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Social thermoregulation as a potential mechanism linking sociality and fitness: Barbary macaques with more social partners form larger huddles. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6074. [PMID: 29666428 PMCID: PMC5904170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-24373-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with more or stronger social bonds experience enhanced survival and reproduction in various species, though the mechanisms mediating these effects are unclear. Social thermoregulation is a common behaviour across many species which reduces cold stress exposure, body heat loss, and homeostatic energy costs, allowing greater energetic investment in growth, reproduction, and survival, with larger aggregations providing greater benefits. If more social individuals form larger thermoregulation aggregations due to having more potential partners, this would provide a direct link between sociality and fitness. We conducted the first test of this hypothesis by studying social relationships and winter sleeping huddles in wild Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus), wherein individuals with more social partners experience greater probability of winter survival. Precipitation and low temperature increased huddle sizes, supporting previous research that huddle size influences thermoregulation and energetics. Huddling relationships were predicted by social (grooming) relationships. Individuals with more social partners therefore formed larger huddles, suggesting reduced energy expenditure and exposure to environmental stressors than less social individuals, potentially explaining how sociality affects survival in this population. This is the first evidence that social thermoregulation may be a direct proximate mechanism by which increased sociality enhances fitness, which may be widely applicable across taxa.
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Abstract
Activity in a network of areas spanning the superior temporal sulcus, dorsomedial frontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex is concerned with how nonhuman primates negotiate the social worlds in which they live. Central aspects of these circuits are retained in humans. Activity in these areas codes for primates' interactions with one another, their attempts to find out about one another, and their attempts to prevent others from finding out too much about themselves. Moreover, important features of the social world, such as dominance status, cooperation, and competition, modulate activity in these areas. We consider the degree to which activity in these regions is simply encoding an individual's own actions and choices or whether this activity is especially and specifically concerned with social cognition. Recent advances in comparative anatomy and computational modeling may help us to gain deeper insights into the nature and boundaries of primate social cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco K Wittmann
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, OX1 3UD Oxford, United Kingdom; , , .,Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Oxford Centre for Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, OX1 3UD Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia L Lockwood
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, OX1 3UD Oxford, United Kingdom; , , .,Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Oxford Centre for Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, OX1 3UD Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew F S Rushworth
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, OX1 3UD Oxford, United Kingdom; , , .,Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Oxford Centre for Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, OX1 3UD Oxford, United Kingdom
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31
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Comparing functions of copulation calls in wild olive baboons, Papio anubis, using multimodel inference. Anim Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2017.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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32
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Ostner J, Schülke O. Linking Sociality to Fitness in Primates: A Call for Mechanisms. ADVANCES IN THE STUDY OF BEHAVIOR 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.asb.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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33
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Kalbitz J, Schülke O, Ostner J. Triadic male-infant-male interaction serves in bond maintenance in male Assamese macaques. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183981. [PMID: 29045402 PMCID: PMC5646793 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While the ultimate consequences of social bonds start to be better understood, the proximate behavioural mechanisms underlying the formation and maintenance of these close affiliative relationships have received less attention. We investigated the possible function of male-infant-male interactions (MIMIs) in male-male social bonding processes by analysing about 9000h of focal animal observations collected on two groups of wild Assamese macaques. In support of an agonistic buffering function of MIMIs, after engaging in a MIMI upon approach, subordinates stayed longer in close proximity of a dominant male. Overall, the frequency of MIMIs increased the stronger the affiliative relationship between two males, suggesting that MIMIs like grooming function in relationship maintenance. We did not find support for a role of MIMIs in bond formation as the frequency of MIMIs did not affect the time a male dyad spent in proximity in the consecutive year. Our results contribute to the general debate on behaviours influencing social dynamics in group living mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefine Kalbitz
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute of Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Cognitive Ethology, German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute of Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute of Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- German Primate Centre, Leibniz Institute of Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
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34
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Young C, McFarland R, Barrett L, Henzi SP. Formidable females and the power trajectories of socially integrated male vervet monkeys. Anim Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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35
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Rathke EM, Berghänel A, Bissonnette A, Ostner J, Schülke O. Age-dependent change of coalitionary strategy in male Barbary macaques. Primate Biol 2017; 4:1-7. [PMID: 32110686 PMCID: PMC7041515 DOI: 10.5194/pb-4-1-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Inter- and intra-specific variation in the propensity to form coalitions has
been explained by variation in the availability of suitable partners,
distribution of fighting ability, coalition profitability, and costs of
coordination. Male coalition formation can be an alternative reproductive
strategy to one-on-one competition to maximize male reproductive success.
Here we focus on age as a state variable to explain within-group variation in
individual propensity to form coalitions against other group members. We
specifically test the prediction that males conditionally switch from a solo
strategy for achievement of high mating success to a cooperative strategy
after reaching post-prime age in male Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus). We combined new observations with data collected in 2006 and 2008
on the same individuals from one captive group living in semi-natural
conditions at Affenberg Salem, Germany, and found that in all years males
between 5 and 13 years formed significantly fewer coalitions than males
14 years and older (post-prime). More importantly, we found those males that
aged into the post-prime phase to have switched their reproductive strategy
and to form significantly more coalitions in 2014 compared to 2008. These
first longitudinal data together with earlier cross-sectional analyses in
this and other primate species suggest that group-level measures of coalition
propensity may be strongly affected by the age composition of groups and that
male coalition formation can be a conditional reproductive strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Rathke
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Georg-August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.,Cognitive Ethology Laboratory, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Berghänel
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Georg-August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.,Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, MSC01-1040, Anthropology, 1, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Annie Bissonnette
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Georg-August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.,Anthropological Institute and Museum, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Georg-August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.,Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Georg-August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.,Primate Social Evolution Group, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
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Duboscq J, Neumann C, Agil M, Perwitasari-Farajallah D, Thierry B, Engelhardt A. Degrees of freedom in social bonds of crested macaque females. Anim Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2016.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Kubenova B, Konecna M, Majolo B, Smilauer P, Ostner J, Schülke O. Triadic awareness predicts partner choice in male-infant-male interactions in Barbary macaques. Anim Cogn 2016; 20:221-232. [PMID: 27734208 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-016-1041-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Social knowledge beyond one's direct relationships is a key in successfully manoeuvring the social world. Individuals gather information on the quality of social relationships between their group companions, which has been termed triadic awareness. Evidence of the use of triadic awareness in natural contexts is limited mainly to conflict management. Here we investigated triadic awareness in wild Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus) in the context of bridging interactions defined as male-infant-male interactions whereby a male (initiator, holder) presents an infant to another male (receiver, non-holder) in order to initiate an affiliative interaction with that male. Analyses based on 1263 h of focal observations on ten infants of one wild social group in Morocco supported the hypothesis that males use their knowledge of the relationship between infants and other adult males when choosing a male as a partner for bridging interactions. Specifically, (i) the number of bridging interactions among holder-infant-receiver triads was positively affected by the strength of the infant-receiver relationship and (ii) when two males were available as bridging partners, a male was more likely to be chosen as the receiver the stronger his social relationship with the infant relative to the other available male. This demonstrates that non-human primates establish triadic awareness of temporary infant-male relationships and use it in a naturally occurring affiliative context. Our results contribute to the discussion about the mechanism underlying the acquisition of triadic awareness and the benefits of its usage, and lend support to hypotheses linking social complexity to the evolution of complex cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kubenova
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 1760, 370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic. .,Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, Georg August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077, Göttingen, Germany. .,Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center and Georg August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Martina Konecna
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 1760, 370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Bonaventura Majolo
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincolnshire, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Petr Smilauer
- Department of Ecosystem Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 1760, 370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Julia Ostner
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, Georg August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.,Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Centre, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.,Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center and Georg August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schülke
- Department of Behavioral Ecology, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach Institute for Zoology and Anthropology, Georg August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.,Research Group Primate Social Evolution, German Primate Centre, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.,Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, German Primate Center and Georg August University Göttingen, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
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Campbell LAD, Tkaczynski PJ, Mouna M, Qarro M, Waterman J, Majolo B. Behavioral responses to injury and death in wild Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus). Primates 2016; 57:309-15. [PMID: 27194051 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-016-0540-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The wounding or death of a conspecific has been shown to elicit varied behavioral responses throughout thanatology. Recently, a number of reports have presented contentious evidence of epimeletic behavior towards the dying and dead among non-human animals, a behavioral trait previously considered uniquely human. Here, we report on the behavioral responses of Barbary macaques, a social, non-human primate, to the deaths of four group members (one high-ranking adult female, one high-ranking adult male, one juvenile male, and one female infant), all caused by road traffic accidents. Responses appeared to vary based on the nature of the death (protracted or instant) and the age class of the deceased. Responses included several behaviors with potential adaptive explanations or consequences. These included exploration, caretaking (guarding, carrying, and grooming), and proximity to wounded individuals or corpses, and immediate as well as longer-lasting distress behaviors from other group members following death, all of which have been reported in other non-human primate species. These observations add to a growing body of comparative evolutionary analysis of primate thanatology and help to highlight the multifaceted impacts of human-induced fatalities on an endangered and socially complex primate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick J Tkaczynski
- Department of Life Sciences, Centre for Research in Evolutionary and Environmental Anthropology, University of Roehampton, London, SW15 4JD, UK.
| | - Mohamed Mouna
- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Qarro
- Ecole Nationale Forestiére d´Ingenieurs, Tabriquet, Salé, Morocco
| | - James Waterman
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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Kalbitz J, Ostner J, Schülke O. Strong, equitable and long-term social bonds in the dispersing sex in Assamese macaques. Anim Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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