Male baboons have higher levels of androgens than females, and they also have thicker skin. This is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that helps males to compete for dominance and mates. The thicker skin provides males with protection from injuries during fights, and it may also make them more intimidating to other males.

Female baboons have lower levels of androgens than males, and they also have thinner skin. This is thought to be an adaptation that helps females to avoid injury during mating. The thinner skin allows females to stretch and accommodate the male's penis during intercourse.

The difference in skin thickness between male and female baboons is a clear example of how social status can get under the skin. In this case, the social status of males and females is reflected in their physical characteristics.

Here are some additional details about the relationship between social status and skin thickness in baboons:

* Androgens are a group of hormones that are produced by the adrenal glands and the testicles. In baboons, the primary androgen is testosterone.

* Testosterone levels are highest in dominant males and lowest in subordinate males. This is thought to be due to the fact that testosterone is produced in response to social stress. When a male baboon is challenged by another male, his testosterone levels will increase. This increase in testosterone will help him to compete more effectively with the other male.

* Skin thickness is correlated with testosterone levels. The higher a male baboon's testosterone levels, the thicker his skin will be. This is thought to be due to the fact that testosterone stimulates the production of collagen, which is a protein that makes up the connective tissue in the skin.

* The difference in skin thickness between male and female baboons is most pronounced in the rump area. This is because the rump area is where the male's penis enters the female's vagina during intercourse. The thicker skin in this area helps to protect the female from injury.

The relationship between social status and skin thickness in baboons is a fascinating example of how social factors can influence physical characteristics. This research highlights the importance of understanding the social context of behavior in order to fully understand the biology of an organism.