Researchers find that homosexual behavior is prevalent among both female and male animals. In species with male rivalry, same-sex behavior tends to evolve as a conflict-resolution strategy, notably in herding animals.
Same-Sex Behavior Evolved in Social Animals
A comprehensive research published in Nature Communications involving over 1,500 species, including lemurs, apes, spiders, fish, and birds, led by experts from Spain's Estación Experimental de Zonas áridas, uncovers the recurrent evolution of same-sex displays, contributing to enhanced social bonding and conflict reduction in animals.
This included instances of homosexual acts in a wide range of species, from invertebrates like insects to vertebrates, including amphibians, reptiles, and non-human primates.
The researchers aimed to trace the evolution of this behavior, often referred to as the 'Darwinian paradox,' which questions why animals engage in same-sex sexual activity despite its apparent lack of direct evolutionary benefit and potential extinction risk if all members of a species practiced it.
Their analysis indicated that same-sex displays were more likely to evolve in social species, suggesting that such behavior plays a role in establishing and maintaining positive social relationships. This, in turn, could strengthen bonds and alliances within the same group.
While same-sex sexual behavior in animals has been linked to factors such as mistaken identity, limited availability of opposite-sex individuals, and sexual frustration from being rejected, the researchers cautioned against using these findings to explain the evolution of sexual orientation in humans. The study primarily focused on short-term courtship or mating interactions rather than permanent sexual preference.
Homosexuality in Animals Is More Common Than Previously Thought
As the research shows, homosexual behavior is prevalent across the animal kingdom. Interestingly, this behavior is equally common in both female and male animals. However, it was more likely to be observed in species with adulticide, where adult males frequently kill rivals. This suggests that same-sex displays may serve as an adaptation to mitigate the risks associated with violent conflict.
Even previous studies have shown similar findings, like the 2006 research that claimed 1,500 species engage in same-sex behavior. Dwarf chimpanzees, closely related to humans, are well-known for their prevalent homosexuality, with the entire species exhibiting bisexual behavior.
Sex plays a prominent role in their daily activities, diverting their focus from the typical primate and animal conflict-resolution method of violence. In these chimpanzee communities, sexual activities are family affairs, and even the young ones participate in acts like oral sex.
Lions also engage in homosexual behavior as a means of strengthening bonds within the pride. Male lions often form alliances with their brothers, and sexual activity serves as a means to ensure loyalty and unity among them.
Additionally, dolphins and killer whales are known for their homosexual behavior, with male pairs forming long-lasting bonds compared to their fleeting interactions with females. Interestingly, cross-species homosexual encounters are not uncommon among dolphins, often diffusing tension in otherwise violent encounters with "sex orgies."
Overall, homosexuality is common in animals with complex social structures, such as apes. Female apes engage in sexual activities to foster social bonds and maintain group cohesion, driven by desire rather than instinct, paralleling human behavior.
RELATED ARTICLE: 72% of Macaque Monkeys Engage in Same-Sex Mounting, With Only 46% Attempting To Do the Same With Females
Check out more news and information on Animals in Science Times.
