"Monogamy" in Primates: Variability, Trends, and Synthesis: Introduction to special issue on Primate Monogamy.

Area of Science:

• Primate social behavior
• Evolutionary biology
• Behavioral ecology

Background:

• The definition of monogamy has evolved from genetic exclusivity to encompass social monogamy.
• Current definitions of social monogamy are often broadly applied across diverse primate social structures and mating systems.

Discussion:

• This special issue critically evaluates the adequacy of current definitions of primate monogamy.
• It investigates the social and mating behaviors of wild primates, questioning traditional classifications.
• The role of captive studies in understanding primate monogamy is explored.

Key Insights:

• Primate social structures exhibit a wide spectrum, challenging simple definitions of monogamy.
• Re-evaluating definitions is crucial for accurately representing primate social and mating behaviors.
• Selective pressures on both monogamous and non-monogamous breeding systems are examined.

Outlook:

• Future research should refine definitions to better capture primate behavioral diversity.
• Comparative studies across primate species are needed to understand the evolution of social systems.
• Integrating data from wild and captive studies will provide a more comprehensive view.