Individual participation in intergroup contests is mediated by numerical assessment strategies in black howler and tufted capuchin monkeys.

ABSTRACT: Asymmetries in resource-holding potential between opposing groups frequently determine outcomes of intergroup contests. Since both numerical superiority and high intergroup dominance rank may confer competitive advantages, group members should benefit from assessing the relative strength of rivals prior to engaging in defensive displays. However, differences in individual assessment may emerge when cost-benefit trade-offs differ among group members. We examine the influence of numerical superiority and intergroup dominance relationships on individual participation in intergroup encounters in black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) and tufted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus nigritus). Black howlers responded with longer vocal displays during encounters with neighbours with an equal number of reside

SUBMITTER: Van Belle S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4633843 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature