Israel Journal of Zoology   Issue:  Volume 50, Number 1 / 2004   Pages:  87 - 91   URL:  Linking Options BREASTS, BUTTOCKS, AND THE CAMEL HUMP RAN ARIELI A1 A1 Israel Naval Medical Institute, P.O. Box 8040, Haifa 31080, Israel Abstract: Breasts and buttocks are unique to humans and are not found in other primates. Hominids evolved in the arid climate east of the African Rift Valley. The present thesis proposes that buttocks and breasts developed in the naked ape as energy stores that do not interfere with cutaneous heat exchange. A larger energy store was required by the gestating and nursing human female waiting for provision of food by the male. Women's specific fat stores (breasts, buttocks, and thighs) are a prerequisite for fertility, and because they characterize the female and signal her fertility, they are used as sexual attractants. The references of this article are secured to subscribers.

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