SEX-DIFFERENCES IN ADOLESCENT RHESUS-MONKEY (MACACA-MULATTA) BEHAVIOR

Sex differences in the behavior of 2.5- to 4.5-year-old rhesus monkeys , living in two social groups approximating natural compositions, were studied over a period of 3 years. Both sexes interacted significantly more often with members of their own sex in agonistic and affiliative interactions even when total rates and durations for male and female subjects did not differ. Strong sexual segregation was also seen in pr oximity, nonspecific contact, and huddling partners. Males were more i nvolved in play and sex than were females and engaged in these activit ies primarily with other males. Females did more grooming than males, but groomed both male and female partners. Females also appeared to in teract with a wider age range of partners than did males. Although tot al participation in aggressive interactions did not differ between the two sexes, females used more active forms of agonistic expression tha n did males. These differences in the behavior of adolescent rhesus ar e hypothesized to lead to social bonding among adolescent males, while females remain bonded to their matrilines, including younger males an d some fully adult males associated with matrilineal relatives. Adoles cent males emigrate from their natal groups but retain sociality and b ond to males and females in new groups as they become adult. (C) 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.