Mate Choice in Non-Human Primates

Abstract

Mate choice has been observed in many species of non-human primates. There are few definitive studies, however, due to the long life spans, complex social behavior, and cognitive abilities of these animals. Here I review the current literature on mate choice in primates. Females typically prefer complex behavioral traits such as social status, familiarity, personality, and parental care abilities. This tendency to prefer behavioral traits is consistent with the non-primate mammalian data. A female's ability to express preferences, however, is often constrained by her social environment—in particular male mating tactics and femalefemale competition. Males exhibit preferences for high-ranking females. In several species, high-ranking females produce more offspring than low-ranking females. In addition, females may also influence male dominance rank and in doing so reduce male-male competition and increase male mating success.

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