Source: Wikipedia
Did you know that the size of the nose of proboscis monkeys Does it have a hidden meaning? That is what the research associations of this highly acclaimed species of animal have asked themselves for years. The Bornean proboscis monkeys They are an endangered animal and have always stood out for their large protuberance on their face, a nose that may seem uncomfortable to look at.
Actually, This nose is full of mysteries, since for this species the size and shape of the nose does matter. Given their appearance, they have always had a reputation as an ugly animal for humans, with a fleshy and extravagant nose, but for their species they can be a survival element.
The shape of a proboscis monkey's nose has a hidden meaning
The proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus) They are primates native to Southwest Asia and the island of Borneo. These animals live in wooded areas, coastal mangroves, and forested environments. They are notable for their lush nose, the size of which varies depending on the sex.
females are smaller and males are more successful the bigger their nose is. Why does this happen? According to various studies and in universities such as the Australian National, it was possible to specify that The male proboscis monkey has evolved throughout history because of his big nose.
Source: Wikipedia
Due to its shape it can emit larger calls, noises and growls with greater magnitude, a type of striking communication that allows you to conquer your opposite sex much better. Such a sound indicates strength, greater security and proposes better health, attracting a greater number of females for reproduction. It is not only a power of attraction, but of competition and escape for their adversaries.
It has been possible to study the evolution of its anatomy, focusing especially on its Nasal Cavity. Males have a larger cavity than females, with a different protuberance. The nasal tissue is fleshy and with orange tones, which allows you to make grunts or nasal sounds much better.
The anatomy and complexion of the proboscis monkey is what counts
These animals have been studied in depth and it has been observed that male monkeys, with a large nose, are even larger than those with small noses. The testicles are also large, offering up to 3 centimeters more width, something that allows them to have more opportunities to breed.
Source: Wikipedia
The larger the size, the greater the amount of sperm, one more advantage to compete among its species. Females consider this distinctive attractive, because when they visually have a large nose, There is more attraction due to his corpulence. They see it as a sign of health and dominance.
Their large nose allows them to have a different morphology, given its elongated and downward shape. generate more powerful sound vibrations in their cavities. However, the females have a different shape and size, their nose is small and upturned, and they also They generate sounds but of less intensity.
Another fact to note is that, The older the male monkeys are, the larger their nose will be. Age causes the nose to grow, with a larger nasal opening compared to young people. The fleshy and soft nasal area grows with age, making them acquire greater dominance among their group.
More curiosities about the proboscis monkey
The nose of these male monkeys It is a badge of virility. It has an elongated, bulging and fleshy shape, taking on a different appearance when they feel excited or angry. When your mood changes His nose swells and turns a more reddish color.
It is an animal in danger of extinction due to its reduction due to mass hunting of its species. The deforestation of the place where they live also implies their death, leaving practically 7.000 specimens left today. Regarding their hunting, they are cruelly killed to prepare medicines due to your intestinal secretions, a formula widely used in traditional Chinese medicine.
He has a good social temperament, reaching 80 individuals living in a group and with diversity between males and females. The females are the ones that can be move from one harem to another when they are young until the time comes to stabilize. When the time comes they reproduce, with the females taking care of the group and feeding. The males are responsible for monitoring and defending the group from possible predators.
Area where the proboscis monkey lives Source: Wikipedia