social hierarchies in animals

Social hierarchies in animals refer to the systems of organization within a group of animals that establish a ranking of individuals based on dominance, submission, or other social factors. These hierarchies often determine access to resources such as food, mates, and territory, as well as social interactions within the group. Dominant individuals typically have priority access to resources and exert control over subordinate members through aggressive or submissive behaviors. The structure of social hierarchies can vary greatly between different species and can be influenced by factors such as age, sex, and individual characteristics.

Explore

Requires login.