Dominant female meerkats are known to have a deadly streak, killing female relatives and their offspring to suppress reproduction.
Researchers have found a sex-specific signature of dominance in female meerkats that gives them super-immunity, possibly helping them maintain their dominant position.
An interesting connection between immunity and social status is being established, revealing insights into the world of meerkats that may surprise you.
According to Jenny Tung, a professor of evolutionary anthropology at Duke University, female meerkats compete for mating opportunities and the outcome can be dramatic.
The study, which involved 129 wild meerkats, revealed that dominant males and females exhibit higher levels of cortisol – a hormone associated with stress. Dominant female meerkats also had higher androgen levels and a higher body mass.
