Harderian gland exudates in the male Meriones unguiculatus regulate female proceptive behavior, aggression, and investigation.

Replicated an earlier finding by the present authors (see record 1986-08500-001) that female proceptive behaviors toward Harderianectomized males are diminished. In the present study, it was shown that estrous females directed fewer proceptive acts toward males lacking Harderian glands. In addition, it was found that females were more defensively aggressive toward Harderianectomized males and preferred to spend more time in the vicinity of intact males. It is speculated that Harderian spread allows the female to assess the reproductive competence of the male. (8 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)