Proboscis monkeys' large nose helps them attract mates – Australian scientists
The proboscis monkey grew its nose for the sake of female attention, writes Popular Science. Researchers from the Australian National University in Canberra studied 3D models of the proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) and found that the monkey's nasal cavity had evolved to become longer. The results of the scientific work were published in the journal Scientific Reports.
Scientists suggest that the noses have become larger so that proboscis animals make louder calls. This is how monkeys show that they are ready to reproduce. Large noses help males attract females and repel males. Females may also find these limp cucumber noses visually attractive.
The researchers’ theory is also proven by the fact that the nasal cavity of the proboscis whale continues to expand even after it reaches sexual maturity. This allows older males to show dominance in groups through the roar they can make due to their large nose.
