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Photo by Verna Case

Taken at the Riverbanks Zoo,
South Carolina.

In summary, social systems of most gibbon species can be characterized as monogamous and as classical territoriality (with regions of overlap). The key selective pressure shaping this system seems to be food resource distribution. Given gibbons' selective diet, they can best use the small, predictable food resources available to them when they are spread out into familiar ranges. Monogamy, particularly manifested in males guarding their mates, likely evolved as a result of this food-resource-necessitated distribution.

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