Bonobos' unusual success story
Monday, January 23, 2012 - 17:50
in Biology & Nature
Bonobos groom each other in Lui Kotale, Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo. Mate competition by males over females is common in many animal species. During mating season male testosterone levels rise, resulting in an increase in aggressive behavior and masculine features. Male bonobos, however, invest much more into friendly relationships with females. Elevated testosterone and aggression levels would collide with this increased tendency towards forming pair-relationships.