I Don't Know About You...
...but I'm glad he did:
How man 'lost his penile spines'
How man 'lost his penile spines'
"Analysis of the genomes of humans, chimpanzees and macaques indicates that a DNA sequence thought to play a role in the production of these spines have been deleted in humans, but has been preserved in other primates.[---]
It suggests another genetic deletion may have led to the expansion of specific regions of the human brain."
"Penile spines are barb-like structures found in many mammals. Their role remains under debate, and they may play different roles in different species.[---]
They may increase stimulation for the male during mating. They might also play a part in inducing female ovulation in a small number of species, but there is evidence that they can cause damage to the female too."
"The researchers believe the loss of these spines in humans may be related to changes in human courtship.Ahem.
The loss of spines, they say, would result in less sensitivity and longer copulation, and may be associated with stronger pair-bonding in humans and greater paternal care for human offspring."
Labels: evolution, genetics, I've got too much time on my hands, science, sex
posted by Louise at 3:08 pm
2 Comments:
So, its opposable thumbs (better foreplay potential) and spineless schwantzes (less sensitivity, longer action) that mark our sexual difference from our primate cousins?
And all this time I'd believed that the human mind was the most important sex organ! Silly moi! :-)
Nice theory, but most, if not all, primates do have opposable thumbs.
But I think you're right about the human mind. Some human minds, in any case.
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