The sexual behavior and breeding system of tufted capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella)

In several nonhuman primate species, females play an active role in sexual interactions. In this respect, Cebus apella represents an extreme case: female tufted capuchins take the sexual initiative, and they solicit the male with a prolonged, flamboyant, and versatile courtship. In most cases, the target of the female's sexual interest is the alpha male, who typically responds with apparent lack of interest and occasional intolerance. Because of the overt and persistent courtship directed to the alpha male, this species has been considered as having a one-male breeding system. The aim of this chapter is to provide insights into the tufted capuchins' mating system by examining the evidence from their socio-sexual behavior, sexual choice, reproductive physiology, and sexually selected traits as they relate to whether they have a multimale/multifemale mating system or a uni-male mating system. As summarized in Table IV, and in contrast to what has been previously argued in the literature, we find convergent evidence supporting a multimale/multifemale mating system, although both breeding systems are indeed possible. Variables such as number of fertile females available in a group (which depends on group size, sex ratio, and seasonality of reproduction) and ecological conditions (namely, availability and distribution of food) are likely factors that influence variations in the breeding system. © 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.