| Abstract: | Explanations of the function of behavior directed toward young primates by conspecifc females other than the mother have emphasized variow outcomes beneficial to "aunts, I' mothers, infants, or some combination thereof. There is little evidence, however, that allomothering benefits mothers or infants to any signifcant degree; allomothering is selfish behavior with highly variable consequences roughly predzctable on the basis of genealogical ties between participants. Selective consequences of infant kidnapping and aunting-to-death are examined, and a hypothesis is suggested concerning the adaptive significance for mothering of allomothering. adoption, infant-stealing, behavioral selection] |
