The Experts below are selected from a list of 2745 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform
Frank P. Cuozzo - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
Genetic Evidence for Male and Female Dispersal in Wild Lemur Catta.
Folia Primatologica, 2015Co-Authors: Joyce A. Parga, Lisa Gould, Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. Sauther, Robert W. Sussman, Ibrahim Antho Youssouf Jacky, Richard R. Lawler, Jennifer PastoriniAbstract:Lemur Catta has traditionally been considered a species with male-biased dispersal; however, occasional female dispersal occurs. Using molecular data, we evaluated dispersal patterns in 2 L. Catta populations in southwestern Madagascar: Tsimanampesotse National Park (TNP) and Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve (BMSR). We also investigated the genetic differentiation between the populations and dispersal partner relatedness. Results showed minor genetic differentiation between the populations (ϴ(ST) = 0.039), which may indicate gene flow historically occurring in this region, made possible by the presence of L. Catta groups between the sites. Different patterns of sex-biased dispersal were found between the sites using corrected assignment indices: male-biased dispersal in TNP, and a lack of sex-biased dispersal in BMSR. Observational evidence of female dispersal in BMSR supports these results and may imply intense female resource competition in and around BMSR, because small groups of 2-3 females have been observed dispersing within BMSR and entering the reserve from outside. These dispersing groups largely consisted of mothers transferring with daughters, although we have an aunt-niece pair transferring together. Genetic data suggest that males also transfer with relatives. Our data demonstrate that dispersal partners consist of same-sexed kin for L. Catta males and females, highlighting the importance of kin selection.
-
Antipredator Vocalization Usage in the Male Ring-Tailed Lemur (Lemur Catta).
Folia Primatologica, 2015Co-Authors: Laura M. Bolt, Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. Sauther, Ibrahim Antho Youssouf JackyAbstract:The ring-tailed Lemur (Lemur Catta) is a group-living strepsirrhine primate endemic to Madagascar that faces considerable predation pressure from aerial and terrestrial predators. This species engages in mobbing and vigilance behavior in response to predators, and has referential alarm vocalizations. Because L. Catta is female dominant, less is known about the alarm calls of males. We tested 3 hypotheses for male antipredator vocalization behavior on L. Catta at the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve in Madagascar: the predator confusion, group maintenance, and predation risk allocation hypotheses. We found support for 2 hypotheses. When a male L. Catta made an antipredator call, other group members vocalized in response. Dominant males did not make alarm calls at higher rates than subordinate males. Predators were more abundant on the western side of Parcel 1, but an even greater number of antipredator vocalizations occurred in this area than predator abundance warranted. We show that male L. Catta consistently participated in group-level antipredator vocalization usage in high-risk locations. Although female L. Catta are known to hold the primary role in group defense, male L. Catta are also key participants in group-wide behaviors that may confuse or drive away predators.
-
The Dental Ecology of Ring-Tailed Lemurs ( Lemur Catta )
Leaping Ahead, 2012Co-Authors: Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. SautherAbstract:Ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta) are among the best-known primates. Long-term study of their behavior, ecology and dentition at a single locality, the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar, has enabled a detailed understanding of their dental ecology. Patterns of dental pathology including tooth wear, tooth loss and abscessed canines correspond to use of specific resources and habitats and differ from patterns seen in sympatric primate species. Regular use of tamarind fruit (Tamarindus indicus) likely leads to a distinct pattern of severe tooth wear and tooth loss, suggesting a “mismatch” between dental morphology and the animals’ primary fallback food.
-
Survival of a wild ring-tailed Lemur ( Lemur Catta ) with abdominal trauma in an anthropogenically disturbed habitat
Madagascar Conservation & Development, 2012Co-Authors: Anneke Moresco, Frank P. Cuozzo, R. Scott Larsen, Ibrahim Antho Jacky Youssouf, James B. Millette, Denver ZooAbstract:Soft tissue injuries are rarely reported in wild primates as these heal fast, are not obvious, and are rapidly scavenged or decompose after death. An adult female ring - tailed Lemur (Lemur Catta) was found to have a chronic gastrointestinal fistula in Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar. She was observed monthly for 13 months until her remains, which showed evidence of dog predation, were found. Until then, she was in good body condition, had gained weight from the previous year and was observed to exhibit normal behaviour and produce an infant. This report documents a wild strepsirrhine primate able to survive significant soft tissue injury in an anthropogenically disturbed habitat.
-
field anesthesia of wild ring tailed Lemurs Lemur Catta using tiletamine zolazepam medetomidine and butorphanol
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 2011Co-Authors: Scott R Larsen, Anneke Moresco, Michelle L. Sauther, Frank P. CuozzoAbstract:Abstract Telazol® has been commonly used for field anesthesia of wild Lemurs, including ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta). Telazol alone provides good induction, but doesn't cause adequate muscle relaxation and sedation for collecting consistent somatic measurements and high-quality dental impressions that are sometimes needed. Variability in induction response has been seen between individuals that have received similar dosages, with young Lemurs seeming to need more anesthetic than mature Lemurs. This investigation evaluated Telazol induction in young (2.0–4.9 yr) and mature (≥5.0 yr) ring-tailed Lemurs and compared postinduction supplementation with medetomidine or medetomidine–butorphanol. Forty-eight Lemurs were anesthetized with Telazol administered via blow dart; then, 20 min after darting, they were supplemented via hand injection with either medetomidine (0.04 mg/kg) or medetomidine–butorphanol (0.04 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively). The odds ratio for young Lemurs to need more than one dart for...
Michelle L. Sauther - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
Restating the Case for a Sharp Population Decline in Lemur Catta.
Folia Primatologica, 2018Co-Authors: Marni Lafleur, Lisa Gould, Tara A. Clarke, Michelle L. Sauther, Kim E. ReuterAbstract:As with many other species in the primate order, ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta) are threatened with extinction. Our articles documented declines in wild ring-tailed Lemur populations and noted that fewer than 2,500 wild ring-tailed Lemurs are known to persist in 32 [Gould and Sauther: Primate Conservation 2016; 30: 89-101] and 34 [LaFleur et al.: Folia Primatologica 2017; 87: 320-330] sites. A criticism of our articles [Murphy et al.: International Journal of Primatology 2017; 38: 623-628] suggested that we have inadequately sampled ring-tailed Lemur populations and habitats, and misused the literature. We disagree, and provide both a detailed rebuttal and responses to specific critique points herein. Moreover, we restate our case outlining a dramatic decline of ring-tailed Lemurs resulting from anthropogenic pressures (deforestation, severe habitat fragmentation, extraction for the pet and bushmeat trades). We pose several thought-provoking questions as to when is the appropriate time for researchers to "sound the alarm" about a species' decline, and remain committed to understanding the drivers of unsustainable exploitation of this emblematic Lemur, and preventing their extinction in the wild.
-
Antipredator Vocalization Usage in the Male Ring-Tailed Lemur (Lemur Catta).
Folia Primatologica, 2015Co-Authors: Laura M. Bolt, Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. Sauther, Ibrahim Antho Youssouf JackyAbstract:The ring-tailed Lemur (Lemur Catta) is a group-living strepsirrhine primate endemic to Madagascar that faces considerable predation pressure from aerial and terrestrial predators. This species engages in mobbing and vigilance behavior in response to predators, and has referential alarm vocalizations. Because L. Catta is female dominant, less is known about the alarm calls of males. We tested 3 hypotheses for male antipredator vocalization behavior on L. Catta at the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve in Madagascar: the predator confusion, group maintenance, and predation risk allocation hypotheses. We found support for 2 hypotheses. When a male L. Catta made an antipredator call, other group members vocalized in response. Dominant males did not make alarm calls at higher rates than subordinate males. Predators were more abundant on the western side of Parcel 1, but an even greater number of antipredator vocalizations occurred in this area than predator abundance warranted. We show that male L. Catta consistently participated in group-level antipredator vocalization usage in high-risk locations. Although female L. Catta are known to hold the primary role in group defense, male L. Catta are also key participants in group-wide behaviors that may confuse or drive away predators.
-
Genetic Evidence for Male and Female Dispersal in Wild Lemur Catta.
Folia Primatologica, 2015Co-Authors: Joyce A. Parga, Lisa Gould, Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. Sauther, Robert W. Sussman, Ibrahim Antho Youssouf Jacky, Richard R. Lawler, Jennifer PastoriniAbstract:Lemur Catta has traditionally been considered a species with male-biased dispersal; however, occasional female dispersal occurs. Using molecular data, we evaluated dispersal patterns in 2 L. Catta populations in southwestern Madagascar: Tsimanampesotse National Park (TNP) and Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve (BMSR). We also investigated the genetic differentiation between the populations and dispersal partner relatedness. Results showed minor genetic differentiation between the populations (ϴ(ST) = 0.039), which may indicate gene flow historically occurring in this region, made possible by the presence of L. Catta groups between the sites. Different patterns of sex-biased dispersal were found between the sites using corrected assignment indices: male-biased dispersal in TNP, and a lack of sex-biased dispersal in BMSR. Observational evidence of female dispersal in BMSR supports these results and may imply intense female resource competition in and around BMSR, because small groups of 2-3 females have been observed dispersing within BMSR and entering the reserve from outside. These dispersing groups largely consisted of mothers transferring with daughters, although we have an aunt-niece pair transferring together. Genetic data suggest that males also transfer with relatives. Our data demonstrate that dispersal partners consist of same-sexed kin for L. Catta males and females, highlighting the importance of kin selection.
-
The Dental Ecology of Ring-Tailed Lemurs ( Lemur Catta )
Leaping Ahead, 2012Co-Authors: Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. SautherAbstract:Ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta) are among the best-known primates. Long-term study of their behavior, ecology and dentition at a single locality, the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar, has enabled a detailed understanding of their dental ecology. Patterns of dental pathology including tooth wear, tooth loss and abscessed canines correspond to use of specific resources and habitats and differ from patterns seen in sympatric primate species. Regular use of tamarind fruit (Tamarindus indicus) likely leads to a distinct pattern of severe tooth wear and tooth loss, suggesting a “mismatch” between dental morphology and the animals’ primary fallback food.
-
field anesthesia of wild ring tailed Lemurs Lemur Catta using tiletamine zolazepam medetomidine and butorphanol
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 2011Co-Authors: Scott R Larsen, Anneke Moresco, Michelle L. Sauther, Frank P. CuozzoAbstract:Abstract Telazol® has been commonly used for field anesthesia of wild Lemurs, including ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta). Telazol alone provides good induction, but doesn't cause adequate muscle relaxation and sedation for collecting consistent somatic measurements and high-quality dental impressions that are sometimes needed. Variability in induction response has been seen between individuals that have received similar dosages, with young Lemurs seeming to need more anesthetic than mature Lemurs. This investigation evaluated Telazol induction in young (2.0–4.9 yr) and mature (≥5.0 yr) ring-tailed Lemurs and compared postinduction supplementation with medetomidine or medetomidine–butorphanol. Forty-eight Lemurs were anesthetized with Telazol administered via blow dart; then, 20 min after darting, they were supplemented via hand injection with either medetomidine (0.04 mg/kg) or medetomidine–butorphanol (0.04 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively). The odds ratio for young Lemurs to need more than one dart for...
Lisa Gould - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
Restating the Case for a Sharp Population Decline in Lemur Catta.
Folia Primatologica, 2018Co-Authors: Marni Lafleur, Lisa Gould, Tara A. Clarke, Michelle L. Sauther, Kim E. ReuterAbstract:As with many other species in the primate order, ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta) are threatened with extinction. Our articles documented declines in wild ring-tailed Lemur populations and noted that fewer than 2,500 wild ring-tailed Lemurs are known to persist in 32 [Gould and Sauther: Primate Conservation 2016; 30: 89-101] and 34 [LaFleur et al.: Folia Primatologica 2017; 87: 320-330] sites. A criticism of our articles [Murphy et al.: International Journal of Primatology 2017; 38: 623-628] suggested that we have inadequately sampled ring-tailed Lemur populations and habitats, and misused the literature. We disagree, and provide both a detailed rebuttal and responses to specific critique points herein. Moreover, we restate our case outlining a dramatic decline of ring-tailed Lemurs resulting from anthropogenic pressures (deforestation, severe habitat fragmentation, extraction for the pet and bushmeat trades). We pose several thought-provoking questions as to when is the appropriate time for researchers to "sound the alarm" about a species' decline, and remain committed to understanding the drivers of unsustainable exploitation of this emblematic Lemur, and preventing their extinction in the wild.
-
Genetic Diversity of the Ring-Tailed Lemur (Lemur Catta) in South-Central Madagascar
Folia Primatologica, 2015Co-Authors: Tara A. Clarke, Lisa Gould, Olivia Gray, Andrew S. BurrellAbstract:Madagascar's Lemurs, now deemed the most endangered group of mammals, represent the highest primate conservation priority in the world. Due to anthropogenic disturbances, an estimated 10% of Malagasy forest cover remains. The endangered Lemur Catta is endemic to the southern regions of Madagascar and now occupies primarily fragmented forest habitats. We examined the influence of habitat fragmentation and isolation on the genetic diversity of L. Catta across 3 different forest fragments in south-central Madagascar. Our analysis revealed moderate levels of genetic diversity. Genetic differentiation among the sites ranged from 0.05 to 0.11. These data suggest that the L. Catta populations within south-central Madagascar have not yet lost significant genetic variation. However, due to ongoing anthropogenic threats faced by ring-tailed Lemurs, continued conservation and research initiatives are imperative for long-term viability of the species.
-
Genetic Evidence for Male and Female Dispersal in Wild Lemur Catta.
Folia Primatologica, 2015Co-Authors: Joyce A. Parga, Lisa Gould, Frank P. Cuozzo, Michelle L. Sauther, Robert W. Sussman, Ibrahim Antho Youssouf Jacky, Richard R. Lawler, Jennifer PastoriniAbstract:Lemur Catta has traditionally been considered a species with male-biased dispersal; however, occasional female dispersal occurs. Using molecular data, we evaluated dispersal patterns in 2 L. Catta populations in southwestern Madagascar: Tsimanampesotse National Park (TNP) and Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve (BMSR). We also investigated the genetic differentiation between the populations and dispersal partner relatedness. Results showed minor genetic differentiation between the populations (ϴ(ST) = 0.039), which may indicate gene flow historically occurring in this region, made possible by the presence of L. Catta groups between the sites. Different patterns of sex-biased dispersal were found between the sites using corrected assignment indices: male-biased dispersal in TNP, and a lack of sex-biased dispersal in BMSR. Observational evidence of female dispersal in BMSR supports these results and may imply intense female resource competition in and around BMSR, because small groups of 2-3 females have been observed dispersing within BMSR and entering the reserve from outside. These dispersing groups largely consisted of mothers transferring with daughters, although we have an aunt-niece pair transferring together. Genetic data suggest that males also transfer with relatives. Our data demonstrate that dispersal partners consist of same-sexed kin for L. Catta males and females, highlighting the importance of kin selection.
-
Feeding behavior and nutrient intake in spiny forest-dwelling ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta) during early gestation and early to mid-lactation periods: compensating in a harsh environment.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology, 2011Co-Authors: Lisa Gould, Michael L. Power, Nicholas Ellwanger, Hajamanitra RambeloarivonyAbstract:Strong resource seasonality in Madagascar has led to the evolution of female feeding priority and weaning synchrony in most Lemur species. For these taxa, pregnancy/early lactation periods coincide with low food availability, and weaning of infants is timed with increased resources at the onset of the rainy season. Reproductive females experience high metabolic requirements, which they must accommodate, particularly when food resources are scarce. Female ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta) residing in spiny forest habitat must deal with resource scarcity, high temperatures (∼36-40°C) and little shade in early to mid-lactation periods. Considered "income breeders," these females must use resources obtained from the environment instead of relying on fat stores; thus, we expected they would differ from same-sized males in time spent on feeding and in the intake of food and nutrients. We investigated these variables in two groups (N = 11 and 12) of Lemur Catta residing in spiny forest habitat during early gestation and early to mid-lactation periods. Focal animal data and food plant samples were collected, and plants were analyzed for protein, kcal, and fiber. We found no sex differences for any feeding or nutrient intake variable for the top five food species consumed. Females in early gestation spent more time feeding compared with early/mid-lactation. Physiological compensation for spiny forest-dwelling females may be tied to greater time spent resting compared with gallery forest conspecifics, consuming foods high in protein, calories, and water, reduced home range defense in a sparsely populated habitat, and for Lemur Catta females in general, production of relatively dilute milk compared with many strepsirrhines.
-
Condensed Tannin Intake in Spiny-Forest-Dwelling Lemur Catta at Berenty Reserve, Madagascar, during Reproductive Periods
Folia Primatologica, 2009Co-Authors: Lisa Gould, P. Constabel, Robin D. Mellway, H. RambeloarivonyAbstract:Primates vary in their choice or avoidance of plant foods high in condensed tannins (CT). Our study focused on CT intake in two groups of Lemur Catta residing in spiny forest habita
Michael L Platt - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
Spontaneous social orienting and gaze following in ringtailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta)
Animal Cognition, 2007Co-Authors: Stephen V. Shepherd, Michael L PlattAbstract:Both human and nonhuman primates preferentially orient toward other individuals and follow gaze in controlled environments. Precisely where any animal looks during natural behavior, however, remains unknown. We used a novel telemetric gaze-tracking system to record orienting behavior of ringtailed Lemurs ( Lemur Catta ) interacting with a naturalistic environment. We here provide the first evidence that ringtailed Lemurs, group-living prosimian primates, preferentially gaze towards other individuals and, moreover, follow other Lemurs’ gaze while freely moving and interacting in naturalistic social and ecological environments. Our results support the hypothesis that stem primates were capable of orienting toward and following the attention of other individuals. Such abilities may have enabled the evolution of more complex social behavior and cognition, including theory of mind and language, which require spontaneous attention sharing. This is the first study to use telemetric eye-tracking to quantitatively monitor gaze in any nonhuman animal during locomotion, feeding, and social interaction. Moreover, this is the first demonstration of gaze following by a prosimian primate and the first to report gaze following during spontaneous interaction in naturalistic social environments.
R. W. Goy - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
Social behaviour and reproductive cycles in captive Ring‐tailed Lemurs (Lemur Catta)*
Journal of Zoology, 2009Co-Authors: C. S. Evans, R. W. GoyAbstract:The social interactions of 12 adult Lemur Catta were observed under standard conditions over a 20-month period. Descriptions of the behavioural repertoire and of vaginal cytology throughout two breeding seasons provided the basis for a preliminary analysis of hormonal influences on social behaviour in a“lower”primate. Both long and short term fluctuations in gonadal activity were associated with changes in the frequency of expression of several non-sexual patterns, particularly of the species-characteristic and sexually differentiated displays of males. The latter appear to be predominantly olfactory gestures and serve to distribute skin-gland secretions, thereby integrating much social activity. In contrast to the extended receptivity characteristic of some monkeys and apes, mating in the Ring-tail is restricted to a brief period during the 51/2-week cycle, being invariably coincident with vaginal oestrus. Hormonal factors alone are probably sufficient to determine the appearance of full behavioural oestrus. Patterns (other than fighting) tentatively associated with territoriality and/or dominance appear the least sensitive to influence by gonadal secretions.
-
social behaviour and reproductive cycles in captive ring tailed Lemurs Lemur Catta
Journal of Zoology, 2009Co-Authors: C. S. Evans, R. W. GoyAbstract:The social interactions of 12 adult Lemur Catta were observed under standard conditions over a 20-month period. Descriptions of the behavioural repertoire and of vaginal cytology throughout two breeding seasons provided the basis for a preliminary analysis of hormonal influences on social behaviour in a“lower”primate. Both long and short term fluctuations in gonadal activity were associated with changes in the frequency of expression of several non-sexual patterns, particularly of the species-characteristic and sexually differentiated displays of males. The latter appear to be predominantly olfactory gestures and serve to distribute skin-gland secretions, thereby integrating much social activity. In contrast to the extended receptivity characteristic of some monkeys and apes, mating in the Ring-tail is restricted to a brief period during the 51/2-week cycle, being invariably coincident with vaginal oestrus. Hormonal factors alone are probably sufficient to determine the appearance of full behavioural oestrus. Patterns (other than fighting) tentatively associated with territoriality and/or dominance appear the least sensitive to influence by gonadal secretions.