In the Bales lab, we use the comparative method to examine the endocrinology and neurobiology of social bonding.  We focus on three monogamous species, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster), the coppery titi monkey (Plecturocebus cupreus), and our newest addition, the lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) while using polygynous species, such as rhesus macaques, as comparisons.