fighting

Aggressive behavior in animals, or intraspecific aggression, involves actual or potential harm to members of the same species. This behavior is widespread and takes various forms, from physical combat to displays and threats. Animals typically fight over essential resources such as food, shelter, and mates. For instance, males often compete more intensely for females due to the biological differences in gamete production.12

The evolution of aggression is understood through a cost-benefit analysis, where animals adjust their behavior to maximize their genetic contribution to the next generation. While the benefits of aggression, like preferential access to resources, are clear, the costs include energy expenditure, time loss, and the risk of injury. These costs help explain why subordinate animals accept their status and why fights are often resolved through displays rather than all-out combat.34