Tag

Same Sex Behavior

All articles tagged with #same sex behavior

science1 month ago•5 min saved

Primates' Same-Sex Behavior Points to Deep Evolutionary Social Strategies

A study reviewing 491 primate species found same-sex sexual behavior in 59 species, indicating a deep evolutionary root linked to harsh environments, predation pressure, and complex social hierarchies. The behavior may help manage stress, reinforce bonds, or build alliances, with potential implications for understanding human evolution, while warning against simplistic interpretations that would erase such behavior in humans.

via ScienceAlert|

#anthropology #evolution #note-extra

science1 month ago•23 min saved

Ecology and Social Complexity Shape Primate Same-Sex Behavior

A global synthesis of 491 primate species finds that same-sex sexual behavior (SSB) is widespread and its occurrence is driven by both environmental pressures (drier habitats, food scarcity, predation) and social factors (larger sexual dimorphism, longer lifespans, more complex hierarchies). Structural equation modelling suggests environmental and life-history traits affect SSB mainly indirectly, while social complexity directly promotes it, highlighting SSB as a context-dependent trait shaping primate evolution and sexual diversity.

via Nature|

#ecology #primate #same-sex-behavior

science1 month ago•4 min saved

Primate same-sex behavior widespread, hinting at social roles in evolution

A Nature Ecology & Evolution study synthesizes data showing same-sex sexual behavior in 59 nonhuman primates (including bonobos, chimpanzees and macaques) with repeated instances in 23 species, suggesting such behavior helps reduce social tension, build bonds, and manage competition under environmental stress—driven by genetics and context rather than reproduction, though not all species are equally studied.

via NBC News|

#animal-behavior #evolution #primates

science1 year ago•3 min saved

"Study Reveals Underreporting of Same-Sex Behavior in Animals"

A study published in PLOSOne reveals that same-sex sexual behavior in animals is significantly underreported by researchers, despite being observed in over 1,500 species. The study found that 77% of surveyed experts had observed such behaviors, but only 18% had published their findings. This underreporting is attributed to perceptions of rarity and lack of research priority, rather than socio-political discomfort. The findings suggest that same-sex behavior is widespread and natural in the animal kingdom, challenging previous assumptions and highlighting the need for more comprehensive research.

via CNN|

#animal-behavior #evolutionary-biology #research

science-and-nature2 years ago•2 min saved

"First-ever Photographs Capture Male Humpback Whales Engaged in Mating Behavior"

Photographers captured the first documented instance of two male humpback whales engaging in sexual activity, with one whale penetrating the other in waters west of Maui. The encounter, observed for approximately 30 minutes, took place roughly 15 feet below the surface. The authors of the study, including marine biologist Stephanie Stack and the photographers, emphasized the scientific significance of the photographs and the importance of understanding the social behavior of humpback whales. Same-sex behavior is common in the animal kingdom, and while it has been observed in other marine mammals, this is the first documented instance for humpback whales.

via NBC News|

#humpback-whales #marine-biology #same-sex-behavior

science-and-nature2 years ago•4 min saved

"Groundbreaking Photos: First-Ever Documentation of Male Humpback Whale Mating"

Photographers captured the first-ever footage of two male humpback whales engaging in sexual activity off the coast of Maui, Hawaii, challenging preconceived notions about humpback whale behavior. The discovery sheds light on same-sex sexual behavior in animals and raises questions about the frequency of such encounters. Researchers are eager to expand observations of humpback whale copulation to better understand their sexual behavior and social dynamics. However, concerns have been raised about the health and well-being of one of the whales involved, suggesting the possibility of non-consensual interaction.

via IFLScience|

#animal-behavior #humpback-whales #marine-mammals

science2 years ago•4 min saved

Male Monkeys Prefer Same-Sex Encounters Over Heterosexual Relationships: Study

A study conducted on rhesus macaques on Cayo Santiago Island found that 72% of male monkeys engage in same-sex behaviors, which were determined to have reproductive benefits and improve social bonding among the primates. The study challenges the long-held belief that nonreproductive activities, such as same-sex relationships, are detrimental to a species' survival. However, caution is advised in applying these findings to other primates, including humans, as different cultural constructions may influence behavior. The researcher hopes that understanding the prevalence and benefits of same-sex behavior in nature can help reduce homophobic reactions in society.

via New York Post |

#evolution #monkeys #reproductive-benefits