The cost of associating with males for Bornean and Sumatran female orangutans: a hidden form of sexual conflict?

ABSTRACT:

Abstract

Sexual coercion, in the form of forced copulations, is relatively frequently observed in orangutans and generally attributed to their semi-solitary lifestyle. High ecological costs of association for females may be responsible for this lifestyle and may have prevented the evolution of morphological fertility indicators (e.g., sexual swellings), which would attract (male) associates. Therefore, sexual conflict may arise not only about mating per se but also about associations, because males may benefit from associations with females to monitor their reproductive state and attempt to monopolize their sexual activities. Here, we evaluate association patterns and costs for females when associating with both males and females of two different orangutan species at two study site

SUBMITTER: Kunz JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7773621 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature