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de Vries D, Winchester JM, Fulwood EL, St Clair EM, Boyer DM. Dental topography of prosimian premolars predicts diet: A comparison in premolar and molar dietary classification accuracies. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024:e24995. [PMID: 38965918 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study tests whether (1) premolar topography of extant "prosimians" (strepsirrhines and tarsiers) successfully predicts diet and (2) whether the combination of molar and premolar topography yields higher classification accuracy than using either tooth position in isolation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dental topographic metrics (ariaDNE, relief index, and orientation patch count rotated) were calculated for 118 individual matched-pairs of mandibular fourth premolars (P4) and second molars (M2). The sample represents 7 families and 22 genera. Tooth variables were analyzed in isolation (P4 only; M2 only), together (P4 and M2), and combined (PC1 scores of bivariate principal component analyses of P4 and M2 for each metric). Discriminant function analyses were conducted with and without a measure of size (two-dimensional surface area). RESULTS When using topography only, "prosimian" P4 shape predicts diet with a success rate that is slightly higher than that of M2 shape. When absolute size is included, premolars and molars perform comparably well. Including both premolar and molar topography (separately or combined) improves classification accuracy for every analysis beyond considering either in isolation. Classification accuracy is highest when premolar and molar topography and size are included. DISCUSSION Our findings indicate that molar teeth incompletely summarize the functional requirements of oral food breakdown for a given diet, and that the mechanism selecting for premolar form is more varied than what is expressed by molar teeth. Finally, our findings suggest that fossil P4s (in isolation or with the M2) can be used for meaningful dietary reconstruction of extinct primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorien de Vries
- School of Science, Engineering, and Environment, University of Salford, Salford, UK
- Interdepartmental Doctoral Program in Anthropological Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Julie M Winchester
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ethan L Fulwood
- DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Doug M Boyer
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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2
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Noiret A, Karanewsky C, Aujard F, Terrien J. Sex-specific heterothermy patterns in wintering captive Microcebus murinus do not translate into differences in energy balance. J Therm Biol 2024; 121:103829. [PMID: 38569326 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The physiological mechanisms of responses to stressors are at the core of ecophysiological studies that examine the limits of an organism's flexibility. Interindividual variability in these physiological responses can be particularly important and lead to differences in the stress response among population groups, which can affect population dynamics. Some observations of intersexual differences in heterothermy raise the question of whether there is a difference in energy management between the sexes. In this study, we assessed male and female differences in mouse lemurs (Microcebus murinus), a highly seasonal malagasy primate, by measuring their physiological flexibility in response to caloric restriction and examining the subsequent impact on reproductive success. Using complementary methods aiming to describe large-scale and daily variations in body temperature throughout a 6-month winter-like short-day (SD) period, we monitored 12 males and 12 females, applying chronic 40% caloric restriction (CR) to 6 individuals in each group. We found variations in Tb modulation throughout the SD period and in response to caloric treatment that depended on sex, as females, regardless of food restriction, and CR males, only, entered deep torpor. The use of deeper torpor, however, did not translate into a lower loss of body mass in females and did not affect reproductive success. Captive conditions may have buffered the depth of torpor and minimised the positive effects of torpor on energy savings. However, the significant sex differences in heterothermy we observed may point to physiological benefits other than preservation of energy reserves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aude Noiret
- Unité Mécanismes Adaptatifs et Evolution (MECADEV), Muséum National D'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS UMR 7179, Brunoy, France.
| | - Caitlin Karanewsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, California, 94305, USA
| | - Fabienne Aujard
- Unité Mécanismes Adaptatifs et Evolution (MECADEV), Muséum National D'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS UMR 7179, Brunoy, France
| | - Jérémy Terrien
- Unité Mécanismes Adaptatifs et Evolution (MECADEV), Muséum National D'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS UMR 7179, Brunoy, France.
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Schüßler D, Blanco MB, Guthrie NK, Sgarlata GM, Dammhahn M, Ernest R, Evasoa MR, Hasiniaina A, Hending D, Jan F, le Pors B, Miller A, Olivieri G, Rakotonanahary AN, Rakotondranary SJ, Rakotondravony R, Ralantoharijaona T, Ramananjato V, Randrianambinina B, Raoelinjanakolona NN, Rasoazanabary E, Rasoloarison RM, Rasolofoson DW, Rasoloharijaona S, Rasolondraibe E, Roberts SH, Teixeira H, van Elst T, Johnson SE, Ganzhorn JU, Chikhi L, Kappeler PM, Louis EE, Salmona J, Radespiel U. Morphological variability or inter-observer bias? A methodological toolkit to improve data quality of multi-researcher datasets for the analysis of morphological variation. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 183:60-78. [PMID: 37607125 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The investigation of morphological variation in animals is widely used in taxonomy, ecology, and evolution. Using large datasets for meta-analyses has dramatically increased, raising concerns about dataset compatibilities and biases introduced by contributions of multiple researchers. MATERIALS AND METHODS We compiled morphological data on 13 variables for 3073 individual mouse lemurs (Cheirogaleidae, Microcebus spp.) from 25 taxa and 153 different sampling locations, measured by 48 different researchers. We introduced and applied a filtering pipeline and quantified improvements in data quality (Shapiro-Francia statistic, skewness, and excess kurtosis). The filtered dataset was then used to test for genus-wide sexual size dimorphism and the applicability of Rensch's, Allen's, and Bergmann's rules. RESULTS Our pipeline reduced inter-observer bias (i.e., increased normality of data distributions). Inter-observer reliability of measurements was notably variable, highlighting the need to reduce data collection biases. Although subtle, we found a consistent pattern of sexual size dimorphism across Microcebus, with females being the larger (but not heavier) sex. Sexual size dimorphism was isometric, providing no support for Rensch's rule. Variations in tail length but not in ear size were consistent with the predictions of Allen's rule. Body mass and length followed a pattern contrary to predictions of Bergmann's rule. DISCUSSION We highlighted the usefulness of large multi-researcher datasets for testing ecological hypotheses after correcting for inter-observer biases. Using genus-wide tests, we outlined generalizable patterns of morphological variability across all mouse lemurs. This new methodological toolkit aims to facilitate future large-scale morphological comparisons for a wide range of taxa and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Schüßler
- Institute of Biology and Chemistry, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim, Germany
| | | | - Nicola K Guthrie
- Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Mamy Rina Evasoa
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alida Hasiniaina
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- School for International Training, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Fabien Jan
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
| | | | - Alex Miller
- Perth Zoo, South Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gillian Olivieri
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Tantely Ralantoharijaona
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Veronarindra Ramananjato
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
- Mention Zoologie et Biodiversité Animale, Faculté des Sciences, Université d'Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Blanchard Randrianambinina
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Nancia N Raoelinjanakolona
- Mention Zoologie et Biodiversité Animale, Faculté des Sciences, Université d'Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Rodin M Rasoloarison
- Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology Unit, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David W Rasolofoson
- Groupe d'Etude et de Recherche sur les Primates de Madagascar (GERP), Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Solofonirina Rasoloharijaona
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Emmanuel Rasolondraibe
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | | | - Helena Teixeira
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- UMR ENTROPIE, Université de La Réunion, La Réunion, France
| | - Tobias van Elst
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Steig E Johnson
- Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jörg U Ganzhorn
- Animal Ecology and Conservation, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lounès Chikhi
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
- Laboratoire Évolution et Diversité Biologique, UMR5174, IRD, CNRS, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Peter M Kappeler
- Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology Unit, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Anthropology/Sociobiology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Edward E Louis
- Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP), Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Jordi Salmona
- Laboratoire Évolution et Diversité Biologique, UMR5174, IRD, CNRS, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Hending D, Randrianarison H, Andriamavosoloarisoa NNM, Ranohatra-Hending C, Cotton S, Holderied M, McCabe G. Effects of forest fragmentation on the dietary ecology and activity of a nocturnal lemur community in North West Madagascar. Am J Primatol 2024; 86:e23569. [PMID: 37899689 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Deforestation and habitat fragmentation is the primary threat to primate populations. The primates that live within degraded and anthropogenically disturbed habitats typical of fragmented landscapes have to cope with lower availability of resources in comparison to primates in continuous, undisturbed forests. While some species are sensitive to forest fragmentation, some evidence exists to suggest that primates can alter their behavior and adapt to such changes, which enables their survival in suboptimal habitat. In this study, we assessed how forest fragmentation and its associated edge-effects impact the feeding ecology and activity levels of a nocturnal primate community in the Sahamalaza-Iles Radama National Park, North West Madagascar. From March 06, 2019 to May 17, 2022, we collected data on tree and invertebrate phenology at our study site, and feeding ecology and activity for 159 lemur individuals from four species. Fruit and flower availability varied significantly between continuous and fragmented forest, and between forest core and edge areas, with continuous forest exhibiting higher continuous fruit and flower availability. Lemur feeding ecology varied significantly too, as the feeding niches of all four species were significantly different between continuous and fragmented forest and between core and edge areas. However, lemur activity levels were mostly consistent among all forest areas. The results of this study suggest that nocturnal lemurs are able to adapt their dietary ecology in response to the available food sources within their habitat. Due to this flexible ecology and dietary plasticity, the lemurs do not need to significantly alter their behavior in different environments to fulfill their dietary needs. While nocturnal lemurs demonstrate adaptability and flexibility to degraded habitat, it is unclear how far this plasticity will stretch considering that Madagascar's forests are still being cleared at an alarming rate. Urgent conservation action is therefore needed to ensure the future of lemur habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hending
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Institute of Conservation Science & Learning, Bristol Zoological Society Ltd, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Christina Ranohatra-Hending
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Institute of Conservation Science & Learning, Bristol Zoological Society Ltd, Bristol, UK
| | - Sam Cotton
- Institute of Conservation Science & Learning, Bristol Zoological Society Ltd, Bristol, UK
| | - Marc Holderied
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Grainne McCabe
- Institute of Conservation Science & Learning, Bristol Zoological Society Ltd, Bristol, UK
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Rakotondravony R, Schüßler D, Rovanirina VST, Ratsimbazafy J, Radespiel U. Variation in abundance and habitat use of the critically endangered Microcebus gerpi across its fragmented range. Am J Primatol 2023; 85:e23553. [PMID: 37750250 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
A link between the abundance of species and their degree of ecological specialization has previously been suggested within the primate order. Many species of lemurs were only recently described and even basic ecological data are not yet available for them. We investigated the habitat use, abundance, and habitat characteristics of the critically endangered Microcebus gerpi and evaluated potential impacts of vegetation structure and human disturbances on variations in its abundance. We determined abundance by systematic nocturnal surveys along 13 transects that were also used for characterizing the vegetation structure in seven study sites that were widely distributed within its range. Although M. gerpi occurred in all studied lowland rainforest and littoral forest fragments in central eastern Madagascar and therefore has a higher ecological plasticity and wider distribution than previously thought, its actual Area of Occupancy is very small (339.78 km2 ) due to an extreme degree of habitat fragmentation throughout its range. M. gerpi occurred with a mean encounter rate of 3.04 individuals/km but abundance varied substantially between sites (0.75-4.5 individuals/km). Statistical modeling revealed that the cover of small- to medium-sized trees had a positive impact on the abundance of M. gerpi, whereas a composite disturbance score (CDS), formed on the basis of information on the prominence of fires, cattle, charcoal production and wood extraction inside and around the forest, had a negative impact on abundance. These results suggest that M. gerpi is slightly less threatened than expected because of its larger geographic range, but also that it responds negatively to human disturbances. These findings raise strong conservation concerns and question the long-term viability of the remaining small and isolated populations of this arboreal solitary forager.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romule Rakotondravony
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Dominik Schüßler
- Institute of Biology and Chemistry, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Valisoa S T Rovanirina
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Jonah Ratsimbazafy
- Groupe d'étude et de recherche sur les primates de Madagascar (GERP), Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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6
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Kumpan LT, Vining AQ, Joyce MM, Aguado WD, Smeltzer EA, Turner SE, Teichroeb JA. Mild movement sequence repetition in five primate species and evidence for a taxonomic divide in cognitive mechanisms. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14503. [PMID: 36008452 PMCID: PMC9411198 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18633-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
When animals forage, they face complex multi-destination routing problems. Traplining behaviour-the repeated use of the same route-can be used to study how spatial memory might evolve to cope with complex routing problems in ecologically distinct taxa. We analyzed experimental data from multi-destination foraging arrays for five species, two cercopithecine monkeys (vervets, Chlorocebus pygerythrus, and Japanese macaques, Macaca fuscata) and three strepsirrhines (fat-tailed dwarf lemurs, Cheirogaleus medius, grey mouse lemurs, Microcebus murinus, and aye-ayes, Daubentonia madagascariensis). These species all developed relatively efficient route formations within the arrays but appeared to rely on variable cognitive mechanisms. We found a strong reliance on heuristics in cercopithecoid species, with initial routes that began near optimal and did not improve with experience. In strepsirrhines, we found greater support for reinforcement learning of location-based decisions, such that routes improved with experience. Further, we found evidence of repeated sequences of site visitation in all species, supporting previous suggestions that primates form traplines. However, the recursive use of routes was weak, differing from the strategies seen in well-known traplining animals. Differences between strepsirrhine and cercopithecine strategies may be the result of either ecological or phylogenetic trends, and we discuss future possibilities for disentangling the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tamara Kumpan
- Anthropology, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, M1C 1A4, Canada. .,School of the Environment, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Alexander Q Vining
- Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, Davis, USA.,Department for the Ecology of Animal Societies, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Megan M Joyce
- Geography, Planning and Environment, Concordia University, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Eve A Smeltzer
- Anthropology, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Sarah E Turner
- Geography, Planning and Environment, Concordia University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Julie A Teichroeb
- Anthropology, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, M1C 1A4, Canada
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7
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Shifting Biogeographic Patterns of Microcebus ravelobensis and M. murinus. INT J PRIMATOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-022-00304-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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8
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9
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Radespiel U, Rakotondravony R, Rasoloharijaona S, Randrianambinina B. A 24-Year Record of Female Reproductive Dynamics in Two Sympatric Mouse Lemur Species in Northwestern Madagascar. INT J PRIMATOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-021-00261-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSeasonal reproduction is widespread among primates but the degree of reproductive synchrony and plasticity can vary, even between closely related species. This study compares the dynamics of female reproductive seasonality in two mouse lemur species, Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis, in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar, across 24 years. We collected 4321 records of female reproductive state from 1033 individual females (319 M. murinus, 714 M. ravelobensis). The analyses revealed disparate reproductive schedules: While female M. murinus showed high degrees of reproductive synchrony throughout all years, leading to the production of two successive litters, the seasonal onset of estrus (= reproductive activation) in female M. ravelobensis was more flexible than in M. murinus, starting 2-4 weeks earlier, varying by up to 4 weeks between years, and being less synchronized. M. ravelobensis females became reproductively active later in years with more rainfall, in particular rain in February, but the timing of reproductive activation was not related to differences in temperatures. The likelihood of early conception was significantly lower in M. ravelobensis than in M. murinus. This was partly due to delayed reproductive activation in young animals, and a lower likelihood of early conception for females with low body mass in M. ravelobensis. Our results suggest high, adaptive reproductive plasticity in M. ravelobensis that may enable individuals to respond flexibly to yearly environmental changes and expand the reproductive period under favorable conditions. These species differences in reproductive schedules may be the result of the divergent evolutionary histories of the two mouse lemur species in different parts of Madagascar.
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10
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Greene LK, Rambeloson E, Rasoanaivo HA, Foss ED, Yoder AD, Drea CM, Blanco MB. Gut Microbial Diversity and Ecological Specialization in Four Sympatric Lemur Species Under Lean Conditions. INT J PRIMATOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-021-00257-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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11
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Wuesthoff EF, Fuller TK, Sutherland C, Kamilar JM, Ramanankirahina R, Rakotondravony R, Rouse S, Radespiel U. Differential habitat use by sympatric species of mouse lemurs across a mangrove–dry forest habitat gradient. J Mammal 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyab082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms by which similar species coexist in sympatry is a major driver of ecological research. Niche partitioning and ecological plasticity can facilitate spatial and habitat use overlap between generalist and specialist species. Mouse lemurs (Microcebus spp.) are a highly speciose group of small primates that are endemic to the forests of Madagascar. In northwestern Madagascar, the relatively widespread M. murinus occurs sympatrically with the microendemic M. ravelobensis. We investigated spatial distributions and densities of these two species across a mangrove–dry forest habitat gradient in Mariarano commune. We used capture-mark-recapture techniques and nocturnal line transect surveys along six transects during June and July 2017. Spatial capture-recapture and distance sampling models were used to estimate lemur densities across habitat types. The congeners displayed differential patterns of spatial distribution and densities. Microcebus murinus was found in similar densities across all habitat types, while M. ravelobensis was found at much higher densities in dry forests compared with mangroves. This suggests that the generalist M. murinus uses a wider array of habitats more evenly than the specialist M. ravelobensis. Our study provides empirical evidence of how cryptic lemur species differ in their habitat use and distribution across an environmental gradient and provides new insights into their ecology in an understudied habitat. Lemurs are one of the most threatened groups of mammals in the world, and understanding how these species are distributed across different forest types is crucial for planning and implementing conservation measures to protect lemur habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric F Wuesthoff
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Todd K Fuller
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Christopher Sutherland
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jason M Kamilar
- Department of Anthropology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
- Graduate Program in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | | | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l’Environnement, University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, BP, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Sarah Rouse
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg, Hannover, Germany
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12
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Hending D. Environmental drivers of Cheirogaleidae population density: Remarkable resilience of Madagascar's smallest lemurs to habitat degradation. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:5874-5891. [PMID: 34141190 PMCID: PMC8207435 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Global animal populations are in decline due to destruction and degradation of their natural habitat. Understanding the factors that determine the distribution and density of threatened animal populations is therefore now a crucial component of their study and conservation. The Cheirogaleidae are a diverse family of small-bodied, nocturnal lemurs that are widespread throughout the forests of Madagascar. However, many cheirogaleid lemurs are now highly threatened with extinction and the environmental factors that determine their distribution and population density are still little known. Here, I investigated the environmental drivers of Cheirogaleidae population density at genus level. LOCATION Various forest sites across Madagascar. METHODS I investigated how six environmental variables affect Cheirogaleidae population density at the genus level via random-effect meta-analyses. I then used a generalized linear mixed-effects model to identify the primary predictors of Cheirogaleidae population density. Finally, I investigated how the population density of this family of lemurs varies between protected and unprotected areas of Madagascar via a GLM analysis. RESULTS My results indicate that the relationships between the tested environmental factors and population density are genus-specific among the Cheirogaleidae. Rather remarkably, the density of Microcebus appears to have a profoundly positive relationship with anthropogenic disturbance and a negative relationship with forest cover, a finding that is also reflected by larger population densities within unprotected areas in comparison with localities within Madagascar's protected area network. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The results of this study are highly encouraging for the conservation of the Cheirogaleidae and highlight the remarkable resilience of these lemurs to habitat degradation and anthropogenic activity. However, this study also outlines the dearth of knowledge that we have for many species, and why these data are urgently needed to understand the biogeography and ecology of threatened animal populations and implement successful conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hending
- School of Biological SciencesThe University of BristolBristolUK
- Bristol Zoological SocietyClifton, BristolUK
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13
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Kiene F, Andriatsitohaina B, Ramsay MS, Rakotondravony R, Strube C, Radespiel U. Habitat fragmentation and vegetation structure impact gastrointestinal parasites of small mammalian hosts in Madagascar. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:6766-6788. [PMID: 34141255 PMCID: PMC8207415 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Deleterious effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on biodiversity have been demonstrated in numerous taxa. Although parasites represent a large part of worldwide biodiversity, they are mostly neglected in this context. We investigated the effects of various anthropogenic environmental changes on gastrointestinal parasite infections in four small mammal hosts inhabiting two landscapes of fragmented dry forest in northwestern Madagascar. Coproscopical examinations were performed on 1,418 fecal samples from 903 individuals of two mouse lemur species, Microcebus murinus (n = 199) and M. ravelobensis (n = 421), and two rodent species, the native Eliurus myoxinus (n = 102) and the invasive Rattus rattus (n = 181). Overall, sixteen parasite morphotypes were detected and significant prevalence differences between host species regarding the most common five parasites may be explained by parasite-host specificity or host behavior, diet, and socioecology. Ten host- and habitat-related ecological variables were evaluated by generalized linear mixed modeling for significant impacts on the prevalence of the most abundant gastrointestinal parasites and on gastrointestinal parasite species richness (GPSR). Forest maturation affected homoxenous parasites (direct life cycle) by increasing Lemuricola, but decreasing Enterobiinae gen. sp. prevalence, while habitat fragmentation and vegetation clearance negatively affected the prevalence of parasites with heterogenic environment (i.e., Strongyloides spp.) or heteroxenous (indirect cycle with intermediate host) cycles, and consequently reduced GPSR. Forest edges and forest degradation likely change abiotic conditions which may reduce habitat suitability for soil-transmitted helminths or required intermediate hosts. The fragility of complex parasite life cycles suggests understudied and potentially severe effects of decreasing habitat quality by fragmentation and degradation on hidden ecological networks that involve parasites. Since parasites can provide indispensable ecological services and ensure stability of ecosystems by modulating animal population dynamics and nutrient pathways, our study underlines the importance of habitat quality and integrity as key aspects of conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Kiene
- Institute of ZoologyUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHanoverGermany
- Centre for Infection MedicineInstitute for ParasitologyUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHanoverGermany
| | - Bertrand Andriatsitohaina
- Institute of ZoologyUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHanoverGermany
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN)University of MahajangaMahajangaMadagascar
| | - Malcolm S. Ramsay
- Institute of ZoologyUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHanoverGermany
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN)University of MahajangaMahajangaMadagascar
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l’EnvironnementUniversity of MahajangaMahajangaMadagascar
| | - Christina Strube
- Centre for Infection MedicineInstitute for ParasitologyUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHanoverGermany
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of ZoologyUniversity of Veterinary Medicine HannoverHanoverGermany
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Schäffler L, Kappeler PM, Halley JM. Mouse Lemurs in an Assemblage of Cheirogaleid Primates in Menabe Central, Western Madagascar – Three Reasons to Coexist. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.585781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecological communities are structured by interactions between coexisting species that mutually influence their distribution and abundance. Ecologically similar species are expected to exclude one another from suitable habitat, so the coexistence of two mouse lemur species in an assemblage of several closely related cheirogaleid primates in the central Menabe region of Madagascar requires explanation. We assessed the occurrence of Madame Berthe’s mouse lemurs (Microcebus berthae) and Gray mouse lemurs (Microcebus murinus), and of two larger cheirogaleids, Coquerel’s giant mouse lemur (Mirza coquereli) and the western fat-tailed dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus medius), by nocturnal line transect walks between 2003 and 2007. We explored interspecific interactions for four different scenarios with varying resource availability (degraded and non-degraded habitat in the wet and dry season), both on the regional spatial scale and on a finer local (transect) scale. We tested whether the interspecific distribution of mouse lemur individuals indicates interspecific competition and whether their regional coexistence might be stabilized by interactions with M. coquereli or C. medius. We developed the “Inter-Species Index of Attraction” (ISIA) to quantify the observed interspecific interactions within transects and determined if these were significantly different from a null model generated by a combination of randomization and bootstrapping to control for intraspecific aggregation. For the two mouse lemurs, interspecific spatial exclusion was most pronounced during the resource-poor dry season, consistent with the hypothesis of feeding competition. Seasonally varying distribution patterns indicated resource tracking in a spatio-temporally heterogeneous environment. The interspecific distribution of individuals suggested that the larger cheirogaleids benefit M. berthae at the expense of the more abundant M. murinus: spatial associations of both, M. coquereli and C. medius, with M. murinus were negative in most scenarios and across spatial scales, but neutral or even positive with M. berthae. Thus, our study revealed that coexistence among ecologically similar heterospecifics can rely on complex density-mediated interspecific processes varying with habitat quality and season. With regard to the stability of animal assemblages, this insight has major implications for biodiversity conservation.
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15
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Andriatsitohaina B, Romero-Mujalli D, Ramsay MS, Kiene F, Rasoloharijaona S, Rakotondravony R, Lehman SM, Radespiel U. Effects of habitat edges on vegetation structure and the vulnerable golden-brown mouse lemur (Microcebus ravelobensis) in northwestern Madagascar. BMC Ecol 2020; 20:69. [PMID: 33334336 PMCID: PMC7745463 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-020-00337-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Edge effects can influence species composition and community structure as a result of changes in microenvironment and edaphic variables. We investigated effects of habitat edges on vegetation structure, abundance and body mass of one vulnerable Microcebus species in northwestern Madagascar. We trapped mouse lemurs along four 1000-m transects (total of 2424 trap nights) that ran perpendicular to the forest edge. We installed 16 pairs of 20 m2 vegetation plots along each transect and measured nine vegetation parameters. To determine the responses of the vegetation and animals to an increasing distance to the edge, we tested the fit of four alternative mathematical functions (linear, power, logistic and unimodal) to the data and derived the depth of edge influence (DEI) for all parameters. Results Logistic and unimodal functions best explained edge responses of vegetation parameters, and the logistic function performed best for abundance and body mass of M. ravelobensis. The DEI varied between 50 m (no. of seedlings, no. of liana, dbh of large trees [dbh ≥ 10 cm]) and 460 m (tree height of large trees) for the vegetation parameters, whereas it was 340 m for M. ravelobensis abundance and 390 m for body mass, corresponding best to the DEI of small tree [dbh < 10 cm] density (360 m). Small trees were significantly taller and the density of seedlings was higher in the interior than in the edge habitat. However, there was no significant difference in M. ravelobensis abundance and body mass between interior and edge habitats, suggesting that M. ravelobensis did not show a strong edge response in the study region. Finally, regression analyses revealed three negative (species abundance and three vegetation parameters) and two positive relationships (body mass and two vegetation parameters), suggesting an impact of vegetation structure on M. ravelobensis which may be partly independent of edge effects. Conclusions A comparison of our results with previous findings reveals that edge effects are variable in space in a small nocturnal primate from Madagascar. Such an ecological plasticity could be extremely relevant for mitigating species responses to habitat loss and anthropogenic disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Romero-Mujalli
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Malcolm S Ramsay
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.,Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Frederik Kiene
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Solofonirina Rasoloharijaona
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar.,Mention Sciences de la Vie et de l'Environnement, Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar.,Mention Sciences de la Vie et de l'Environnement, Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Shawn M Lehman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
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16
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Kiene F, Andriatsitohaina B, Ramsay MS, Rakotondramanana H, Rakotondravony R, Radespiel U, Strube C. Forest edges affect ectoparasite infestation patterns of small mammalian hosts in fragmented forests in Madagascar. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:299-313. [PMID: 32224123 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Habitat loss and fragmentation drive the worldwide depletion of biodiversity. Although it is known that anthropogenic disturbances severely affect host and ecosystem integrity, effects on parasites are largely understudied. This study aims to investigate if and how habitat fragmentation affects the composition of ectoparasite communities on small mammalian hosts in two networks of dry deciduous forest fragments in northwestern Madagascar. Forest sites differing in size, proportion of edge habitat and host density were studied in the Ankarafantsika National Park and in the Mariarano region. A total of 924 individuals of two mouse lemur species, Microcebus murinus (n = 200) and Microcebus ravelobensis (n = 426), and two rodent species, endemic Eliurus myoxinus (n = 114) and introduced Rattus rattus (n = 184), were captured to assess ectoparasite infestations. Ectoparasite prevalence and ectoparasite species richness were statistically related to nine ecological variables applying generalized linear mixed models. Hosts harbored ticks (Haemaphysalis microcebi), mites (Schoutedenichia microcebi, Listrophoroides spp., Laelaptidae gen. spp.) and sucking lice (Lemurpediculus spp., Polyplax sp., Hoplopleuridae gen. sp.). Parasite prevalence differed significantly between host species for all detected parasite taxa. Proximity to the forest edge led to a significant reduction in ectoparasites. Parasite-specific edge effects were observed up to a distance of 750 m from the forest edge. The obtained results imply that habitat fragmentation impacts ectoparasite communities, in particular by negatively affecting temporary parasite species. The results are best explained by an interplay of parasite life cycles, responses to changes in abiotic factors induced by edges and host-specific responses to habitat fragmentation. The negative responses of most studied ectoparasite taxa to forest edges and habitat fragmentation demonstrate their ecological vulnerability that may eventually threaten the integrity of ecosystems and potentially impact ectoparasite biodiversity worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Kiene
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany; Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Bertrand Andriatsitohaina
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar; Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Malcolm S Ramsay
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, 19 Russell Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2S2, Canada; Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Herinjatovo Rakotondramanana
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar; Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany.
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany.
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17
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Steffens TS, Mercado Malabet F, Lehman SM. Occurrence of lemurs in landscapes and their species-specific scale responses to habitat loss. Am J Primatol 2020; 82:e23110. [PMID: 32083335 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Studies on the impact of habitat loss on species occurrence consistently find that the amount of habitat (measured as patch area) is a major determinant of species occurrence at a patch-level. However, patch-level research may fail to detect important patterns and processes only observable at a landscape-level. A landscape-level approach that incorporates species-specific scale responses is needed to better understand what drives species occurrence. Our aim was to determine the landscape-level scale of effect of habitat amount on the occurrence of three species of nocturnal lemurs (Cheirogaleus medius, Microcebus murinus, and M. ravelobensis). We surveyed line transects to determine the occurrence of three lemur species within a fragmented landscape of deciduous dry forest and anthropogenic grassland in northwestern Madagascar. To determine the scale of effect of habitat loss on lemur occurrence, we compared logistic regression models of occurrence against habitat amount among eight different landscape scales using Akaike's Information Criterion values. We found differing scale responses among the lemurs in our study. Occurrence of C. medius responded to habitat amount at scales between 0.5-4 ha, M. murinus at scales between 1 and 4 ha and M. ravelobensis at scales between 0.125 and 4 ha. We suggest that the scale of effect for C. medius is mediated by their ability to hibernate. A relatively lower scale-response for Microcebus spp. likely reflect their omnivorous diet, small habitat requirements, and limited dispersal ability. Differences in scale responses between M. murinus and M. ravelobensis are likely a result of differing dispersal ability and responses to edge effects between these species. Our study is among the first on lemurs to show the value of a landscape-level approach when assessing the effects of habitat loss on species occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis S Steffens
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Planet Madagascar, Ontario, Guelph, Canada.,Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Shawn M Lehman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Andriatsitohaina B, Ramsay MS, Kiene F, Lehman SM, Rasoloharijaona S, Rakotondravony R, Radespiel U. Ecological fragmentation effects in mouse lemurs and small mammals in northwestern Madagascar. Am J Primatol 2019; 82:e23059. [PMID: 31608491 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Habitat loss and fragmentation are major ecological forces threatening animal communities across the globe. These issues are especially true in Madagascar, where forest loss is ongoing. We examined the effects of forest fragmentation on the distribution and abundance of sympatric, endemic gray, and golden-brown mouse lemurs (Microcebus murinus and Microcebus ravelobensis), the endemic western tuft-tailed rat (Eliurus myoxinus), and the invasive black rat (Rattus rattus) in two regions in northwestern Madagascar. We used systematic capture procedures in 40 forest fragments and four continuous forest sites which differed in size, shape, and degree of isolation. With a trapping effort of 11,567 trap nights during two dry seasons (2017-2018), we captured 929 individuals (432 M. ravelobensis, 196 M. murinus, 116 E. myoxinus, and 185 R. rattus). We examined the influence of study region, forest type (fragment vs. continuous), forest size, forest shape, the proportion of 50-m forest edge and distance to continuous forest on the abundance and interaction of the four species. Responses to fragmentation differed strongly between species, but no interaction could be detected between the abundance of the different species. Thus competition within and between native and invasive species may not be regulating abundances in these regions. On the contrary, the abundance of M. ravelobensis and E. myoxinus differed significantly between study regions and was negatively affected by fragmentation. In contrast, there was no evidence of an impact of fragmentation on the abundance of M. murinus. Finally, the invasive R. rattus responded positively to the increasing distance to the continuous forest. In conclusion, the response of small Malagasy mammals to forest fragmentation varies largely between species, and fragmentation effects need to be examined at a species-specific level to fully understand their ecological dynamics and complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Andriatsitohaina
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar.,Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Malcolm S Ramsay
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Frederik Kiene
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Shawn M Lehman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Solofonirina Rasoloharijaona
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar.,Mention Sciences de la Vie et de l'Environnement, Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar.,Mention Sciences de la Vie et de l'Environnement, Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
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19
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DeCasien AR, Higham JP. Primate mosaic brain evolution reflects selection on sensory and cognitive specialization. Nat Ecol Evol 2019; 3:1483-1493. [PMID: 31548648 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-019-0969-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian brain is composed of numerous functionally distinct structures that vary in size within and between clades, reflecting selection for sensory and cognitive specialization. Primates represent a particularly interesting case in which to examine mosaic brain evolution since they exhibit marked behavioural variation, spanning most social structures, diets and activity periods observed across mammals. Although studies have consistently demonstrated a trade-off between visual and olfactory specialization in primates, studies of some regions (for example, the neocortex) have produced conflicting results. Here, we analyse the socioecological factors influencing the relative size of 33 brain regions, using updated statistical techniques and data from more species and individuals than previous studies. Our results confirm that group-living species and those with high-quality diets have expanded olfactory or visual systems, depending on whether they are nocturnal or diurnal. Conversely, regions associated with spatial memory are expanded in solitary species and those with low-quality diets, suggesting a trade-off between visual processing and spatial memory. Contrary to previous work, we show that diet quality predicts relative neocortex size at least as well as, if not better than, social complexity. Overall, our results demonstrate that primate brain structure is largely driven by selection on sensory and cognitive specializations that develop in response to divergent socioecological niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex R DeCasien
- Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA. .,New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, New York, NY, USA.
| | - James P Higham
- Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA.,New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, New York, NY, USA
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20
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Klein A, Strube C, Radespiel U, Springer A, Zimmermann E. Differences in infection patterns of vector-borne blood-stage parasites of sympatric Malagasy primate species ( Microcebus murinus, M. ravelobensis). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2019; 10:59-70. [PMID: 31372336 PMCID: PMC6657000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The dynamic relationship of vector-borne parasites, arthropod vectors and their hosts is prone to change under the influence of climate change, global integration, shifting demographics and deforestation. It is therefore essential to better understand parasitism in wildlife populations, including parasites transmitted by blood-feeding vectors, and explore host range and heterogeneity of parasitic infections. We investigated Giemsa stained blood smears of two sympatric Malagasy primate species (Microcebus murinus: 184 samples from 69 individuals and M. ravelobensis: 264 samples from 91 individuals) for blood-stage parasites and tested for a potential influence of host species, sex, body mass and sampling month on blood-stage parasite prevalence and infection intensity. No protozoan parasites were detected in either host species. A host-specific difference was observed in filarial nematode infections, with higher risk of infection in M. murinus (prevalence 30.43%), than in M. ravelobensis (prevalence 6.59%), which may be explained by differences in host behavior and/or immune competence, linked to the period of host-parasite coevolution. Neither sex nor sampling month influenced infection prevalence or intensity significantly. We did not observe a negative effect of microfilarial infections on host fitness when taking body mass as a proxy. Our results support the hypothesis of a long-term evolutionary adaptation of hosts and parasites, leading to persistent infection with low morbidity. Morphological and molecular analyses indicate the finding of a new species, “Lemurfilaria lemuris”. Genetic analysis furthermore showed >99% sequence identity with microfilariae described from a sympatric, larger-bodied lemur species of a different genus, suggesting low host-specificity of the detected filariae and pathogen transmission across genus boundaries. Findings contribute to a more comprehensive picture of vector-borne diseases of Malagasy lemurs. Small Malagasy primate species are hosts of the newly described Lemurfilaria lemuris. Risk of microfilarial infection and infection intensity differed between host species. This could be linked to differences in host socioecology and/or phylogeography. No influence of microfilarial infection on host body mass was observed. >99% sequence identity of filariae from lemur hosts of different genera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Klein
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.,Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Elke Zimmermann
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
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21
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Klein A, Zimmermann E, Radespiel U, Schaarschmidt F, Springer A, Strube C. Ectoparasite communities of small-bodied Malagasy primates: seasonal and socioecological influences on tick, mite and lice infestation of Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis in northwestern Madagascar. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:459. [PMID: 30089527 PMCID: PMC6083607 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3034-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ectoparasitic infections are of particular interest for endangered wildlife, as ectoparasites are potential vectors for inter- and intraspecific pathogen transmission and may be indicators to assess the health status of endangered populations. Here, ectoparasite dynamics in sympatric populations of two Malagasy mouse lemur species, Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis, were investigated over an 11-month period. Furthermore, the animals' body mass was determined as an indicator of body condition, reflecting seasonal and environmental challenges. Living in sympatry, the two study species experience the same environmental conditions, but show distinct differences in socioecology: Microcebus murinus sleeps in tree holes, either solitarily (males) or sometimes in groups (females only), whereas M. ravelobensis sleeps in mixed-sex groups in more open vegetation. RESULTS Both mouse lemur species hosted ticks (Haemaphysalis sp.), lice (Lemurpediculus sp.) and mites (Trombiculidae gen. sp. and Laelaptidae gen. sp.). Host species, as well as temporal variations (month and year), were identified as the main factors influencing infestation. Tick infestation peaked in the late dry season and was significantly more often observed in M. murinus (P = 0.011), while lice infestation was more likely in M. ravelobensis (P < 0.001) and showed a continuous increase over the course of the dry season. Genetic analyses identified Lemurpediculus sp. infesting both mouse lemur species. Ticks morphologically conform to H. lemuris, but genetic analysis showed a clear differentiation of the specimens collected in this study, suggesting a potentially new tick species. Host body mass decreased from the early to the late dry season, indicating nutritional stress during this period, which may render individuals more susceptible to parasitic infections. CONCLUSIONS Seasonal differences and species-specific variations in sleeping site ecology in terms of sleeping site type and sociality were determined as key factors influencing ectoparasitism in M. murinus and M. ravelobensis. This needs to be taken into account when evaluating ectoparasite infestations at a given time point. The detection of the same parasite species on two closely related and sympatric host species furthermore indicates a potential pathway for disease transmission, not only within but also between lemur species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Klein
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Elke Zimmermann
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Frank Schaarschmidt
- Institute of Biostatistics, Leibniz University Hannover, Herrenhäuser Str. 2, 30419 Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hanover, Germany
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22
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Effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on cognitive functions, electrocortical activity and neurogenesis in a non-human primate, the grey mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus). Behav Brain Res 2018; 347:394-407. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Rina Evasoa M, Radespiel U, Hasiniaina AF, Rasoloharijaona S, Randrianambinina B, Rakotondravony R, Zimmermann E. Variation in reproduction of the smallest-bodied primate radiation, the mouse lemurs (Microcebus spp.): A synopsis. Am J Primatol 2018; 80:e22874. [PMID: 29767414 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is a fundamental trait in the life history of any species and contributes to species diversity and evolution. Here, we aim to review the barely known variation in reproductive patterns of the smallest-bodied primate radiation, the Malagasy mouse lemurs, focusing on twelve species of four phylogenetic clades. We present a new reproductive field dataset collected between May and November 1996-2016 for nine species (Microcebus murinus, M. myoxinus, M. ravelobensis, M. bongolavensis, M. danfossi, M. sambiranensis, M. margothmarshae, M. mamiratra, and M. lehilahytsara) and add published field information on three additional species. In the majority of species, the estrus of females was recorded in the period of long days (day length longer than 12 hr), whereas male testes size increased about one to three months prior to this. Reproductive schedules varied considerably between the four clades. Sympatric species-pairs of different clades differed in the timing of female and male reproduction, suggesting strong phylogenetic constraints. Populations of the same species in a different ecological setting varied in the onset of reproduction, suggesting substantial environmental plasticity. Warm temperatures and rainfall throughout the year may allow for less expressed reproductive seasonality. Our results suggest that an interplay between phylogenetic relatedness, ambient temperature (as a proxy for thermo regulatory constraints), and rainfall (as a proxy for food availability), may best explain this variation. Findings further point to a more complex control of mouse lemur reproduction than previously described and illuminate phylogenetic constraints and adaptive potentials in behavioral reaction norms of a species-rich primate radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamy Rina Evasoa
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alida F Hasiniaina
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Elke Zimmermann
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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24
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Interannual Variation in Diet, Dietary Diversity, and Dietary Overlap in Three Sympatric Strepsirrhine Species in Southeastern Madagascar. INT J PRIMATOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-018-0040-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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25
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Webber MM, Jezkova T, Rodríguez-Robles JA. Feeding Ecology of Sidewinder Rattlesnakes, Crotalus cerastes (Viperidae). HERPETOLOGICA 2016. [DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-15-00031.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael M. Webber
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
| | - Tereza Jezkova
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
| | - Javier A. Rodríguez-Robles
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
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26
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Female dominance in two basal primates, Microcebus murinus and Microcebus lehilahytsara: variation and determinants. Anim Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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27
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Blanco MB, Andriantsalohimisantatra AA, Rivoharison TV, Andriambeloson JB. Evidence of prolonged torpor in Goodman’s mouse lemurs at Ankafobe forest, central Madagascar. Primates 2016; 58:31-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s10329-016-0586-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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28
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Thomas P, Pouydebat E, Hardy I, Aujard F, Ross CF, Herrel A. Sexual dimorphism in bite force in the grey mouse lemur. J Zool (1987) 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P. Thomas
- Département de Biologie; Master Biosciences; ENS de Lyon; Lyon France
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 CNRS/MNHN; Paris France
| | - E. Pouydebat
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 CNRS/MNHN; Paris France
| | - I. Hardy
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 CNRS/MNHN; Paris France
| | - F. Aujard
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 CNRS/MNHN; Paris France
| | - C. F. Ross
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy; University of Chicago; Chicago IL USA
| | - A. Herrel
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 CNRS/MNHN; Paris France
- Evolutionary Morphology of Vertebrates; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
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29
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Radespiel U, Schaber K, Kessler SE, Schaarschmidt F, Strube C. Variations in the excretion patterns of helminth eggs in two sympatric mouse lemur species (Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis) in northwestern Madagascar. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:941-54. [PMID: 25563604 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4259-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Many factors can influence the parasite load of animal hosts, but integrative studies that simultaneously investigate several factors are still rare in many taxonomic groups. This study investigates the influence of host species, host population density, parasite transmission mode, sex, and two temporal (month, year) factors on gastrointestinal parasite prevalence and fecal egg counts of two endemic primate species from Madagascar, Microcebus ravelobensis and Microcebus murinus. A total of 646 fecal samples were available and analyzed from three dry seasons. Six different helminth egg morphotypes were found, and these were Subulura sp. (14.51 % prevalence), strongyle eggs (12.95 %), Ascaris sp. (7.94 %), Lemuricola sp. (0.17 %), and two forms of tapeworms (Hymenolepis spp.) (1.73 and 0.69 %). Coinfection with more than one egg type was observed in 21.22 % of the samples containing eggs. Multivariate analyses revealed that host species and sex did neither explain significant variation in the prevalence and fecal egg counts of parasites with direct life cycles (Ascaris sp., strongyle egg type, Lemuricola sp.) nor of arthropod-transmitted parasites (Subulura sp.). However, fecal egg counts of Subulura sp. differed significantly between study sites, and the prevalence of Subulura sp. and of parasites with direct life cycles was influenced by temporal parameters, mainly by differences between study years and partly between months. When comparing the findings with the yearly and seasonal rainfall patterns in the area, most results are in accordance with the hypothesis of an increased vulnerability of the host toward infection under some sort of environmental challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany,
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Jürges V, Kitzler J, Zingg R, Radespiel U. First insights into the social organisation of Goodman's mouse lemur (Microcebus lehilahytsara)--testing predictions from socio-ecological hypotheses in the Masoala hall of Zurich Zoo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 84:32-48. [PMID: 23363617 DOI: 10.1159/000345917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Following current socio-ecological hypotheses, the social organisation of a species is mainly determined by resource quality and distribution. In the case of Microcebus spp., a taxon-specific socio-ecological model was formulated earlier to explain their variable social organisation. The aim of this study was to test predictions from this model in Goodman's mouse lemur based on a data set from animals living in the semi-free colony of Zurich Zoo. During a 2-month study, we observed 5 females and 5 males using radiotelemetry. We collected data on space use and social behaviour, on sleeping sites and on sleeping group composition. Predictions were only partly confirmed. As expected, Goodman's mouse lemurs were solitary foragers with an increased level of sociality due to crowding effects at the feeding stations. In contrast to the prediction, females and males formed unisexual sleeping groups, which were stable in females and of a fission-fusion type in males. Whereas the formation of sleeping groups by both sexes may be triggered by thermoregulatory benefits, the formation of unisexual sleeping groups may result from divergent interests of the sexes. We conclude that the existing model for the evolution of mouse lemur social organisation needs to be refined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Jürges
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Hanover, Germany
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31
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Chazeau C, Marchal J, Hackert R, Perret M, Herrel A. Proximate determinants of bite force capacity in the mouse lemur. J Zool (1987) 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Chazeau
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N.; Paris Cedex 5 France
| | - J. Marchal
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N.; Paris Cedex 5 France
| | - R. Hackert
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N.; Paris Cedex 5 France
| | - M. Perret
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N.; Paris Cedex 5 France
| | - A. Herrel
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité; UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N.; Paris Cedex 5 France
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32
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Eichmueller P, Thorén S, Radespiel U. The lack of female dominance in golden-brown mouse lemurs suggests alternative routes in lemur social evolution. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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33
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Rakotondranary SJ, Ganzhorn JU. Habitat separation of sympatric Microcebus spp. in the dry spiny forest of south-eastern Madagascar. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 82:212-23. [PMID: 22236872 DOI: 10.1159/000334816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
We investigated whether or not habitat structure contributes to the separation of two sister species of lemurs and their hybrids. For this, we studied Microcebus murinus and M. griseorufus along a continuous vegetation gradient where populations of the two species occur in sympatry or in allopatry. In allopatry, the two species are generalists without any sign of microhabitat selectivity. In sympatry, both species differed significantly and discriminated against certain habitat structures: M. murinus was found in microhabitats with larger trees than average while M. griseorufus utilized microhabitats with smaller trees. Hybrids between the two species did not show any significant discrimination for or against microhabitat structure and did not differ in their habitat utilization from either parent species. Both species can go into torpor and hibernation. M. griseorufus is seen more frequently during the cool dry season than M. murinus. We assume that M. murinus goes into extended torpor or hibernation more frequently than M. griseorufus. We interpret the different occurrence of large-sized trees in microhabitats of M. murinus as a prerequisite for M. murinus to be able to spend extended periods of time in tree holes that are isolated and allow hibernation at reduced temperature levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Jacques Rakotondranary
- Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation, University of Hamburg, Biozentrum Grindel, Hamburg, Germany.
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34
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Rakotondranary SJ, Struck U, Knoblauch C, Ganzhorn JU. Regional, seasonal and interspecific variation in 15N and 13C in sympatric mouse lemurs. Naturwissenschaften 2011; 98:909-17. [PMID: 21881908 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-011-0840-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2011] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 08/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Madagascar provides some of the rare examples where two or more primate species of the same genus and with seemingly identical niche requirements occur in sympatry. If congeneric primate species co-occur in other parts of the world, they differ in size in a way that is consistent with Hutchinson's rule for coexisting species, or they occupy different ecological niches. In some areas of Madagascar, mouse lemurs do not follow these "rules" and thus seem to violate one of the principles of community ecology. In order to understand the mechanisms that allow coexistence of sympatric congeneric species without obvious niche differentiation, we studied food composition of two identical sized omnivorous mouse lemur species, Microcebus griseorufus and M. murinus with the help of stable isotope analyses (δ(15)N and δ(13)C). The two species are closely related sister species. During the rich season, when food seems abundant, the two species do not differ in their nitrogen isotope composition, indicating that the two species occupy the same trophic level. But they differ in their δ(13)C values, indicating that M. griseorufus feeds more on C(4) and CAM (Crassulacean-acid-metabolism) plants than M. murinus. During the lean season, M. murinus has lower δ(15)N values, indicating that the two species feed at different trophic levels during times of food shortage. Hybrids between the two species showed intermediate food composition. The results reflect subtle differences in foraging or metabolic adaptations that are difficult to quantify by traditional observations but that represent possibilities to allow coexistence of species.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Jacques Rakotondranary
- Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation, University of Hamburg, Biozentrum Grindel, Martin-Luther-King Platz 3, 20146, Hamburg, Germany.
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35
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Kappel P, Hohenbrink S, Radespiel U. Experimental evidence for olfactory predator recognition in wild mouse lemurs. Am J Primatol 2011; 73:928-38. [DOI: 10.1002/ajp.20963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2010] [Revised: 03/13/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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36
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Thorén S, Linnenbrink M, Radespiel U. Different competitive potential in two coexisting mouse lemur species in northwestern Madagascar. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2011; 145:156-62. [PMID: 21412995 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.21516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 01/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Thorén
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Germany.
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