The dynamical evolution of globular cluster systems in triaxial galaxies

The presence of the populous family of box orbits in triaxial galaxies makes them a place where the evolution of the globular cluster system (GCS) is expected to be much more relevant than in axisymmetric galaxies. Actually, the effect of dynamical friction is significantly enhanced, as well as tidal interaction with the compact central region. We have integrated a set of orbits (in a huge range of initial conditions and of galactic models) of globular clusters moving in self-consistent triaxial potentials, in order to deepen the study of the importance of dynamical friction on the individual and global characteristics. The results confirm that the difference between the radial distribution of the halo-bulge stellar component and the one of the GCS (clearly shown by many observations of elliptical galaxies) may be explained by the GCS evolution. Moreover, the GCS evolution may lead to loss of matter (in form of tidally stripped stars) to the galactic centre, helping the formation and subsequent accretion of a massive object therein.