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Chapter 8: Primate Behavior
Learning Objectives- After studying this chapter you should be able to do the following:
1. Distinguish between older methods of primate study and the modern approach to primatology.
2. Identify the three types of primate study environments: captive, semi-free ranging, and field.
3. Explain the paradox of sociality in nonhuman primates.
4. Delineate reasons for sociality in nonhuman primates.
5. Describe how mating practices in nonhuman primates are due to the need for sociality.
6. Define sociality.
7. Discuss the evolution of primate social behavior.
8. Explain how reproductive asymmetry, male reproductive strategies, and female reproductive strategies are all
elements of social behavior.
9. Contrast the older ecological models of primate societies with newer models of primate social evolution.
Key Terms- After studying this chapter you should be able to understand and identify the following terms:
captive study Primate behavior study conducted in a zoo, laboratory, or other enclosed setting.
dominance hierarchy Ranking of individual primates in a group that reflects their ability to displace, intimidate, or
defeat group mates in contests.
female philopatry Primate social system in which females remain and breed in the group of their birth,
whereas males emigrate.
field study Primate behavior study conducted in the habitat in which the primate naturally occurs.
fission-fusion polygyny Type of primate social system in which animals travel in foraging parties of varying
sizes instead of a cohesive group.
infanticide The killing of infants, either by members of the infant's group or by a member of a rival group.
matrilineal Pattern of female kinship in a primate social group.
monogamy A mating pair bond; primates may still mate occasionally outside the pair bond.
male philopatry Primate social system in which males remain and breed in the group of their birth, whereas females emigrate.
polyandry Mating system in which one female mates with multiple males.
polygynandrous Primate social system consisting of multiple males and multiple females.
polygynous Mating system consisting of at least one male and more than one female.
semi-free ranging Primate behavior study conducted in a large area that is enclosed or isolated in some way
so the population is captive.
sexual receptivity Willingness and ability of a female to mate, also defined as fertility.
social system The grouping pattern in which a primate species lives, including its size and composition, evolved
in response to natural and sexual selection pressures.