In the 1990s, bonobos and chimpanzees were seen as two distinct monkey species, with bonobos being peaceful and agreeable while chimpanzees were viewed as aggressive and competitive. However, recent research has shown that both species exhibit aggression and competition within their communities. Maud Mouginot, a primate researcher, has spent extensive time studying both species in their natural habitats, uncovering new insights into their behavior.
Mouginot observed that male bonobos display aggression towards each other, although it is more common for males to target other males rather than females. This is different from chimpanzees who often form gangs and engage in violent behavior to protect their territory. Bonobos also have a unique social structure where females play a significant role in leadership and mating, which may contribute to lower levels of aggression overall.
Mouginot hopes to better understand the behavior of these closely related monkey species and how they have evolved to survive in different environments through his research. By studying bonobos and chimpanzees, researchers can gain valuable insights into primate behavior that can potentially help conserve these species from extinction. While there are still clear differences between the two species, such as the absence of killing in bonobos compared to chimpanzees, there is much to learn from studying their behavior in the wild.
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