Yes, in some species, components of male urine can attract females.
While the statement "male urine attracts females" is a broad generalization, research suggests that specific compounds found in male urine act as pheromones, signaling cues that can influence female behavior, including attraction. The most notable example from the provided reference is MUP20.
MUP20: A Male Pheromone
MUP20 (Major Urinary Protein 20) is a pheromone found in male urine. The reference indicates MUP20:
- Stimulates female sexual attraction to male urinary scent: This is the key point directly answering the question. It indicates that MUP20, present in male urine, can act as an attractant for females.
- Promotes aggressive male behavior.
- Promotes a strong learned attraction to the airborne urinary odor of an individual male.
- Promotes spatial learning by rapidly conditioning preference for its remembered location.
Therefore, MUP20 plays a multifaceted role, influencing both male and female behaviors related to mating and territory.
Important Considerations:
- Species-Specific: The effects of urinary pheromones are highly species-specific. What attracts a female mouse might not have the same effect on a female rat, or a female of any other species.
- Context-Dependent: The attractiveness of urine might depend on various factors such as the female's estrous cycle, the male's social status, and the presence of other environmental cues.
- Complexity of Pheromone Communication: Pheromone communication is complex and often involves multiple compounds working together. MUP20 is likely just one component of a larger chemical signal.
Conclusion:
The statement "male urine attracts females" is true in some animal species due to the presence of pheromones like MUP20, which can stimulate female sexual attraction. The specific mechanisms and effectiveness, however, are highly dependent on the species and context.
