Organism
Rhesus Macaque
TL;DR
Rhesus macaques represent the despotic model of dominance in species with limited cognitive capacity and simple social structures.
Rhesus macaques represent the despotic model of dominance in species with limited cognitive capacity and simple social structures. A dominant rhesus macaque monopolizes 75% of mating opportunities through aggression and intimidation. Subordinates show chronic stress responses: elevated cortisol, suppressed immune function, reduced fertility. The alpha's reproductive success comes at the cost of group fitness, illustrating why despotic leadership is evolutionarily unstable long-term.
Notable Traits of Rhesus Macaque
- 75% mating monopolization
- Chronic subordinate stress
- Simple despotic hierarchy