International Journal of Primatology

, Volume 5, Issue 5, pp 473–489 | Cite as

Intragroup agonistic behavior in captive groups of the common marmosetCallithrix jacchus jacchus

  • A. G. Sutcliffe
  • T. B. Poole
Article
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Abstract

Agonistic behavior was observed in five captive groups of the monogamous monkey Callithrix jacchus jacchus,which normally produces twin offspring every 5 months. Fighting is first recorded when twins are aged 5–10 months. These “twin fights” determine differences in status between combatants that can be detected 5 months later. From what is known of the social behavior of the species, it is postulated that an individual’s twin is its most serious rival and that early fighting is advantageous because injury is minimal while the animal retains its milk dentition. In contrast to twin fights, aggression between same-sex juveniles and adults does not involve long fights and probably serves to reinforce preexisting differences in status. It often results in forcing a group member to the periphery, and therefore, its main function may be to drive mature, same-sexed individuals out of the group. Apart from the relationship between twins, status within the family group is age related and not normally determined by aggression.

Key words

marmoset aggression status 
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Copyright information

© Plenum Publishing Corporation 1984

Authors and Affiliations

  • A. G. Sutcliffe
    • 1
  • T. B. Poole
    • 1
  1. 1.Department of ZoologyUniversity College of WalesPengalisUK

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