"Sexual Dimorphism: Female Animals Develop Larger Brains, Males Grow Larger Antlers"

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Source: Newser
"Sexual Dimorphism: Female Animals Develop Larger Brains, Males Grow Larger Antlers"
Photo: Newser
TL;DR Summary

A study on over 400 ungulate specimens found that as male animals grow larger antlers, females develop bigger brains, suggesting a correlation between the two traits. The research, published in Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology, proposes that as males invest in weaponry, herd social structures become more complex, potentially requiring females to have larger brains to navigate these systems. While the link between brain size and intelligence is not definitive, evidence shows advantages for females with larger brains, such as longer lifespans and more offspring. The study prompts a reevaluation of the focus on male competition for mates, suggesting a need to consider the decision-making role of females with larger brains.

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