Female monkeys do have breasts, but they are not as permanently prominent as human breasts. Unlike humans, female monkeys' breasts only become noticeably larger during pregnancy and lactation, returning to a smaller size after weaning their offspring. This is typical for most mammals, with human females being the exception.
The permanent, full-form breasts in human females are a unique trait that developed during evolution and have been theorized to serve various purposes, including:
- Sexual signaling: Human breasts, regardless of their size, might be a visual cue for potential mates.
- Infancy feeding: Permanent breast tissue could facilitate prolonged breastfeeding and provide a consistent food source for infants.
- Social bonding: Breasts may contribute to social interaction and bonding between mothers and infants.
The specific evolutionary reasons for this unique human characteristic are still being studied and debated by scientists.
