Estrous cycle is charcteristic of

Options

A. Human females
B. Mammalian females
C. Mammalian females other than primates
D. Mammales

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Estrous Cycle**: The estrous cycle is a reproductive cycle found in many female mammals. It is characterized by periods of fertility and is distinct from the menstrual cycle.

2. **Differentiating Between Mammals**: Mammals can be broadly categorized into two groups: primates and non-primates. Primates include humans, monkeys, and apes, while non-primates include animals such as dogs, cats, and horses.

3. **Menstrual Cycle vs. Estrous Cycle**: In primates (including humans), the menstrual cycle occurs, which involves the shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium) along with blood loss. In contrast, the estrous cycle, which occurs in non-primates, involves the reabsorption of the uterine lining, meaning there is no blood loss during this cycle.

4. **Identifying the Correct Option**: The question asks for the characteristic of the estrous cycle. Since the estrous cycle is typical of non-primate mammals, the correct answer is "mammalian female other than primate."

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the estrous cycle is characteristic of mammalian females that are not primates.

**Final Answer**: The estrous cycle is characteristic of mammalian females other than primates.

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