Primordial primate ancestors likely lived in pairs, contradicting Solitary Theory

Primordial primate ancestors likely lived in pairs, contradicting Solitary Theory
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Jan 10, 2024

A recent study led by scientists from the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), in collaboration with an international team, has revealed new insights into the social structures of primate ancestors. This research, challenging long-standing beliefs, suggests that around 70 million years ago, during the age of dinosaurs, these ancestors predominantly lived in pairs, rather than leading solitary lives as previously assumed.

The concept of pair living among primates, which involves long-term bonding between two adults, often includes shared responsibilities such as raising offspring and mutual protection. This study suggests that such social structures were already established in the primordial epochs, contradicting the earlier hypothesis that pair living evolved much later in primate history.

This discovery has significant implications for the field of primatology, a branch of science that has long been fascinated with understanding the social behavior and evolution of primates. Traditionally, primatologists have relied on a combination of paleontological, comparative anatomical, and genetic analyses to decipher the social structures of ancestral primates.

The current study, however, stands out by utilizing current field observations to construct an extensive database of primate behavior. Covering 498 populations across 223 species, this research represents one of the most comprehensive datasets in primate studies to date.

The advanced statistical analysis employed in this study aligns with modern scientific methodologies, offering a robust framework for interpreting large datasets. Such analytical techniques are crucial in biological research, especially when drawing conclusions from wide-ranging and complex data.

Published in the prestigious journal PNAS (Vol. 121, no.1), the study not only provides a novel perspective on primate evolution but also reinforces the importance of continuous research and hypothesis testing in the scientific community. With only about 15% of these ancestral primates opting for a solitary lifestyle, the findings highlight the significance of pair living in the evolutionary journey of primates.

The research also underscores the evolutionary benefits of pair living, such as enhanced reproductive success and reduced thermoregulation costs, which are crucial survival aspects in the animal kingdom. This understanding contributes to the broader field of evolutionary biology, providing insights into how social behaviors can influence the survival and adaptation of species over millions of years.

CNRS's involvement in this study exemplifies the critical role of governmental research organizations in advancing scientific knowledge. As France's largest governmental research organization, CNRS has a history of contributing to various scientific disciplines, demonstrating the value of interdisciplinary and international research collaborations.

This study not only challenges the prevailing notions about the social organization of primate ancestors but also sets a new direction for future research in primatology and related fields. It highlights the dynamic nature of evolutionary processes and the importance of reevaluating scientific hypotheses with innovative approaches and new data.

Research Report:Primate social organization evolved from a flexible pair-living ancestor