Sexual Monomorphism in Spotted Hyenas, Crocuta crocuta

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1986
Authors:Iii, WJHamilto, Tilson, RL, Frank, LG
Journal:Ethology
Volume:71
Pagination:63-73
Date Published:1986
ISBN Number:1439-0310
Keywords:Hyaena hyaena
Abstract:

Intersexual and intrasexual interactions by female spotted hyenas, (Crocuta crocuta), are correlated with the ability of the heavier and more aggressive females to dominate males at large carcasses, the principal food of spotted hyenas. Female spotted hyenas have a modified clitoris closely resembling a penis. A slightly bilobed scrotum containing fat and connective tissue contributes to the male-like appearance of the female sexual facies. Penile and pseudopenis erection by spotted hyenas occurs primarily during social encounters at carcasses and elsewhere. Analyses here, based on interspecies comparisons of spotted hyena, brown hyena (Hyaena brunnea) and striped hyena (H. hyaena) morphology, behavior and ecology and interpopulation comparisons of spotted hyenas suggest possible gradualistic evolutionary interpretations of the pseudopenis.

URL:http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0310.1986.tb00570.x
Taxonomic name: 
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Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith