Age- and sex-associated variations in the directional asymmetry of rhesus macaque forelimb bones.

摘要: Several investigators have questioned the significance of handedness as an explanation directional forelimb asymmetries, yet little has been done to isolate other explanatory factors. In this investigation, we analyze 61 female and 76 male rhesus macaque skeletons for evidence age- and/or sex-associated variations in ten bone measurements. All significant asymmetries are found favor right side. Although some these compatible with interpretation muscle hypertrophy associated preferential use forelimb, overall pattern suggests that sex-related ontogenetic factors deserve equal consideration. Significant sex differences asymmetry means present within across age groups (juveniles, subadults, adults), numerous changes also found. A decreasing was males, 40% measures being asymmetrical juveniles, 30% 20% adults. Among females, is reversed. No were juvenile or subadult whereas adult females. We conclude greater consideration necessary when drawing samples purpose investigating awareness trait-specific patterns variation citing demographically nonrepresentative populations behavioral asymmetries.