Some aspects of visual signalling and social organization in the vervet monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops pygerythrus).
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Date
1982
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Abstract
This study uses data from three free-ranging and one caged troop
to describe the visual signals identified in the South African
subspecies of vervet monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops pygerythrus)
and to then compare them to those seen at other localities and
in other species. It further assesses some signals used specifically
by adult males - those involving secondary sexual characters - in
terms of male social strategies. In the pursuance of this four aspects
of the literature were reviewed in detail. It is concluded
that:
1. Natal vervets use fewer visual signals that do other species
living in more open habitat. These signals are, however, very
similar to those recorded in East Africa, while differing more
from those isolated in the West African representitive of the
vervet group.
2. Vervet troops are not closed units and migration - both into
and out of the troop - occurs frequently. The data suggest that it
is a male phenomenon related to the availability of females.
3. The signalling function of the genitals does not accord with that
ascribed to them by Wickler (1967). Penile extensions are closely
associated with aggressive behaviour by the signaller, and scrotal
retractions with submissive behaviour. Associated with these
structures are displays that facilitate their presentation to the
recipients.
4. While males yawn more than any other age-sex class, largely for
social and not physiological reasons, there is no clear evidence
that yawns serve specifically to display the canines. Nevertheless,
by being strongly associated with certain interactions they are
presumed to accrue signal value.
5. As males move into troops where they must compete with unrelated
males for the same resources, it is concluded that the genital signalling
system has evolved to mediate male relationships. This is
of special significance as the "multimale" system of vervets is
regarded as being less developed than those of Papio or Macaca monkeys.
Description
Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1982.
Keywords
Monkeys--Behaviour., Animal communication., Theses--Psychology.