Reproductive benefits of high social status in male macaques (Macaca)

The connection between social status and reproductive success is contentious in many nonhuman primates, with many early studies focusing on mating success. We examined this relationship in macaques using actual paternity differences between males. We analysed data from 14 studies, representing six species and the three lineages of the genus. We found a medium-size, positive and significant association even after controlling for phylogeny (species and lineage), spatial constraints and genetic techniques that differed between the studies. The population of macaques studied was the only factor to differ between studies and to be of important consideration for the final evaluation of the relationship. Our findings support the hypothesis that male macaques obtain advantageous reproductive output through acquisition of high social status in their groups. Even in primate groups where alternative reproductive tactics and limited control models may explain a high proportion of the reproductive skew observed, the fitness benefits derived from social status are evident and are likely to have contributed to the evolution of the complex social stratification found at present in these species.