Behavioral Differences Between Chimps and Bonobos

What are some of the behavioral differences between Chimps and Bonobos?

Chimps and Bonobos are close relatives genetically speaking, yet so different in regards to their social dynamics. The Chimps are very violent in nature, and the Bonobos are a quite peaceful species. But how can relatives so close be so polar different in behavior? A single theory suggests that a little negative adjustment in the accessibility of provisions might have encouraged the progression of the present Chimp and Bonobo societies. Researchers Richard Wrangham and Amy Parish studied the dynamics of both the Chimp and Bonobo species. Bonobos were only recognized as a separate species from chimps in the year 1929. However, Bonobos sparked the interest biologists with their very laid-back lifestyles, roles of males and females within the society, female relations, and passion for recreational sex.

Bonobos reside in the forests south of the Zaire River. Their species evolved a greatly dissimilar social configuration from the Chimps given that the two species divided about two million years ago. Male supremacy is a huge part of the chimp social order. Arguments are most likely resolved violence. Unfortunately for Chimps, sex is only used for reproductive purposes The Chimps reproductive tactics fuel the fire for possible infanticide.

On the other hand, the Bonobo society is distinguished by the well-built bonds that grow between not related female bonobos. Bonobos use the act of sex to strengthen relationships to find a resolution to conflicts. Unlike the Chimps, infanticide is rarely ever practiced. The Bonobos promiscuous sexual practices leave paternity of father unknown, eliminating the incentive for infanticide.

Both the Bonobos and Chimps live in tropical forests along the Zaire River; chimps are located north of the Zaire River and bonobos to the south. However, roughly two and a half million years ago, a drought in southern Zaire killed off out the favored food of gorillas and forced the primates to flee their homes. After the drought, the forests returned to its old self, but the gorillas didn’t return to their normal selves. Bonobos found themselves alone and with an abundance of prime foods. The extra food and lack of tension resulted in the form of stronger social bonds. The Chimps had to do more competing for food leading to a tense life-style leading to more aggressive and violent behavior.