Can Ants Be Gay?
WouterDespite the fact that homosexuality is often a taboo topic, researchers have found evidence that same-sex mating is common in the animal kingdom. Thousands of species exhibit homosexual behavior, including birds, mammals, and insects.
Researchers from Tel Aviv University in Israel conducted the first comprehensive review of homosexuality in invertebrates. Their review reviewed 100 studies on homosexual behavior in insects. They found that 85 percent of male insects engaged in homosexual acts. They also discovered that male insects spread sperm to other males.
While the exact evolutionary benefits of homosexual behavior are unclear, some scientists believe it may have some advantages. For instance, the practice could help avoid predators. It also could serve to prepare young adults for heterosexual courtship.
Researchers also found that insects are more likely to engage in homosexual behavior under stressful conditions. This might mean that insects do not have evolved the ability to distinguish between a viable mate and a non-viable one. Rather, they may just want to have fun.
Researchers found that male insects carry around scents of females. This may attract another male insect to the object of affection. It may also act as a means to distract a rival male.
Researchers also found that male insects have a tendency to engage in same-sex mating when they are in a rush to reproduce. They also found that male insects are not able to distinguish if their potential mate is male or female until after mounting.
