Dominance Hierarchy - Research Article from Macmillan Science Library: Animal Sciences

This encyclopedia article consists of approximately 4 pages of information about Dominance Hierarchy.

Dominance Hierarchy - Research Article from Macmillan Science Library: Animal Sciences

This encyclopedia article consists of approximately 4 pages of information about Dominance Hierarchy.
This section contains 1,086 words
(approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page)
Buy the Dominance Hierarchy Encyclopedia Article

Dominance hierarchies characterize many species in which individuals live in close proximity to one another. The dominance hierarchy is a social structure within a group of animals in which certain individuals are dominant over others, and are therefore able to claim access to better resources in the form of food, mates, shelter, and other desirable commodities.

The evolution of dominance hierarchies in a species is indicative that there is competition for resources. Members of a dominance hierarchy are aware of how they are positioned within that hierarchy and they behave appropriately. Of particular importance, the establishment of dominance hierarchies allows for the resolution of conflict between individuals without costly fighting that can result in serious injury or even death. In species where organized group living is essential to survival, it also serves to maintain order among pack members.

Establishment of Dominance Hierarchies

Dominance hierarchies are often...

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This section contains 1,086 words
(approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page)
Buy the Dominance Hierarchy Encyclopedia Article
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Dominance Hierarchy from Macmillan. Copyright © 2001-2006 by Macmillan Reference USA, an imprint of the Gale Group. All rights reserved.