How Female Distribution Affects Male Numbers in Primates
Author Information
Author(s): Carnes Laurel Mariah, Nunn Charles L., Lewis Rebecca J.
Hypothesis
The ability of males to monopolize access to females is affected by both the spatial distribution of females and the temporal distribution of reproductive opportunities.
Conclusion
The study found that the number of females in primate groups is the primary predictor of the number of males, with female reproductive synchrony playing a secondary role.
Supporting Evidence
- The number of females was found to have a strong positive influence on the number of males in primate groups.
- Temporal effects, particularly involving female estrous synchrony, were also significant in predicting male numbers.
- Greater breeding seasonality was associated with an increase in the number of males.
Takeaway
This study shows that in groups of primates, having more females usually means there will be more males, and when females are more likely to be in heat at the same time, it makes it harder for one male to control access to them.
Methodology
The study used a comparative dataset and Bayesian phylogenetic methods to analyze the influence of female distribution on male numbers in primate groups.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the reliance on long-term studies and the averaging of data from conflicting sources.
Limitations
The study may not account for intraspecific variation and relied on averaged data from multiple sources.
Participant Demographics
The study included 71 species of primates, with 22 being strepsirrhines and 49 haplorhines.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.68
Confidence Interval
0.01–0.55
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website