We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and Francois＇ langurs T.francoisi to test two hypotheses： （1） these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their a...We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and Francois＇ langurs T.francoisi to test two hypotheses： （1） these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their activities on limestone hills, and （2） Francois＇ langurs have evolved more diverse locomotor skills than white-headed langurs. Data were collected from 1996 - 1998 and in 2005 in Fusui Nature Reserve, Guangxi, and showed that the two species had similar locomotor types, but Francois＇ langurs had more locomotor modes （26） than white-headed langurs （12）. Quadrupedal walking and leaping were two major types, and white-headed langurs were more arboreal than Francois＇ langurs. We suggest that, while keeping their ancestral locomotor types, the two species have evolved new types allowing them to live on limestone cliffs. Compared to white-headed langurs, Francois＇ langurs have more diverse locomotor modes that probably have allowed them to live in more habitat types. As an evolutionary outcome, Francois＇ langurs have a larger distribution range .展开更多
The utilization of caves is a rather rare phenomenon in nonhuman primates, found almost exclusively in those members of the genus Trachypithecus that share a preference for forest on limestone （karst） hills in Vietn...The utilization of caves is a rather rare phenomenon in nonhuman primates, found almost exclusively in those members of the genus Trachypithecus that share a preference for forest on limestone （karst） hills in Vietnam and southern China. Here we report a new case of usage of caves as overnight sleeping shelters by Franqois＇ or black langurs （Trachypithecusfraru;oisi） at Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Yanhe County, Guizhou Province, China. We tentatively address three possible hypotheses that may account for the use of caves in Francois＇ langurs at Mayanghe： shelter against climatic conditions, acquisition of minerals and protection from predators. utilization展开更多
Aim:To evaluate the safety of the long term vas occlusion with styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) and its non-invasive reversal at the level of accessory reproductive glands (ARGs) in langurs.Methods:The morphology of sem...Aim:To evaluate the safety of the long term vas occlusion with styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) and its non-invasive reversal at the level of accessory reproductive glands (ARGs) in langurs.Methods:The morphology of seminal vesicle and ventral prostate was evaluated by light as well as transmission electron microscopy.Serum clinical chemistry and urine albumin were evaluated in an autoanalyzer using reagent kits.Fructose,acid phosphatase and zinc in the seminal plasma were evaluated spectrophotometrically according to the WHO manual.Serum testosterone, prostate specific antigen and sperm antibodies were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using reagent kits and hematology was estimated according to standard procedures.Results:The morphological features and secretory activity of the seminal vesicle and prostate were normal as evidenced by the presence of well- developed mitochondria,rough endoplasmic reticulum,Golgi bodies,secretory granules and normal nuclear charac- teristics throughout the course of investigation.Serum testosterone and prostate specific antigen remained unaltered and serum antisperm antibodies level presented negative titres.Urine albumin was nil.Total red blood corpuscles (RBC),white blood corpuscles (WBC),hemoglobin (Hb) and red cell indices,serum protein,glucose,cholesterol, creatinine,creatine kinase (CK),serum glutamate oxalate transaminase (SGOT),serum glutamate pyruvate transami- nase (SGPT),lactate dehydrogenase (LDH),bilirubin,urea,triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) did not show appreciable changes following vas occlusion and after its non-invasive reversal.Although fructose,acid phos- phatase (ACP) and zinc in the seminal plasma showed a significant reduction following vas occlusion,it could not be related to the morphology of seminal vesicle and prostate.Conclusion:SMA vas occlusion and its non-invasive reversal do not damage the accessory reproductive organs.展开更多
Infanticide was first observed in langurs nearly 50 years ago,and this rare phenomenon has been inferred to have either an evolutionarily adaptive function or to be a pathological and non-functional behavior.In this s...Infanticide was first observed in langurs nearly 50 years ago,and this rare phenomenon has been inferred to have either an evolutionarily adaptive function or to be a pathological and non-functional behavior.In this study,we report 5 male takeover events in one-male groups of white-headed langurs in the Nongguan Karst Hills,Guangxi,China from 1998 to 2006.We recorded 13 attacks on 9 infants by extra-group males or new resident males.During the male takeovers,all of the infants younger than 6 months(with an average age of 3.6 months[N=11])in the groups disappeared.The infant death rate during the 4.2 months after takeover by a new male was significantly higher than the infant death rate calculated for most of the year.Older infants that were still nursing(with an average age of 14.1 months[N=7])were often attacked and seriously wounded by the extra-group males or new resident males,but all of them survived.The interbirth intervals of females whose infants were assumed to be killed by males were significantly reduced relative to those of females in groups with stable male tenure(mean=10 months vs 25 months).Our data suggest that males kill unrelated and unweaned infants during the takeover period to decrease the time until the infants’mothers resume fertility.Thus,infanticide would support sexual selection theory in white-headed langurs.The data also show that infanticidal behavior was directed toward the infants,especially those who were still nursing.Female dispersal may function as a counter-strategy to avoid infanticide.展开更多
We collected fecal samples of white-headed langurs from 3 of the 4 remaining habitat fragments(Fa,Fb and CZ)located in southwestern Guangxi,China in Nov 2005,and used 5 microsatellite loci and the SRY gene to assess t...We collected fecal samples of white-headed langurs from 3 of the 4 remaining habitat fragments(Fa,Fb and CZ)located in southwestern Guangxi,China in Nov 2005,and used 5 microsatellite loci and the SRY gene to assess the relatedness between 46 langurs within and between groups.We observed 2 forms of group structure:one-male/multi-female groups(OMGs)and all-male groups(AMGs).One AMG in Fa was composed of 2 generations,included a father,2 sons and 1 unrelated male,and all OMGs in all 3 habitats included 1 resident male,several adult females and offspring.Of the 21 identified father-offspring cases,the resident male fathered 20(95%)and the non-resident male sired 1(5%),suggesting that adult males had overwhelming priority of access to females as the resident male in an OMG,while the non-resident male may also have the opportunity to adopt surreptitious mating strategies.展开更多
The ecological environmental changes of Francois langur natural reserve was monitored during Pengshui Reservoir construction and influence of reservoir fil-ing on the habitat of the natural reserve was analyzed to pro...The ecological environmental changes of Francois langur natural reserve was monitored during Pengshui Reservoir construction and influence of reservoir fil-ing on the habitat of the natural reserve was analyzed to provide the scientific basis and basic data for scientific evaluation and protection of original ecological environ-ment of the natural reserve and Francois langur’s habitat, and vegetation recover. The results showed that 4.8 hm2 of the nature reserve was submerged after reser-voir fil ing, which occupied for 0.1% of total area of the natural reserve only. The main influence area was in the submerged area of Hongdu River basin. The water level rise resulted in partial changes in land utilization and soil erosion, which indi-cates that reservoir fil ing has insignificant effect on ecological environment of the whole natural reserve.展开更多
We collected data on sleeping site use from two groups of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus living in Fusui Nature Reserve, China between August 2007 and July 2008. This information was used to test se...We collected data on sleeping site use from two groups of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus living in Fusui Nature Reserve, China between August 2007 and July 2008. This information was used to test several hypotheses regarding ultimate causes of sleeping site use in this primate. White-headed langurs slept either in caves （17 sites） or on a cliffledge （one site）. They used all sleeping sites repeatedly, and reused some of them on consecutive nights; three nights was the longest consecutive use of any one sleep site. We suggest that langurs use sleeping sites to make approach and attack by predators difficult, and to increase their own familiarity with a location so as to improve chances for escape. Langurs＇ cryptic behaviors with an increased level of vigilance before entering sleeping sites may also help in decreasing the possibility of detection by predators. Group 1 spent more sleeping nights in the central area of their territory than expected; in contrast, group 2 spent more sleeping nights in the periphery of their territory, which overlaps with that of another groups, than expected. The position of sleeping site relative to the last feeding site of the day and the first feeding site of the subsequent morning indicated a strategy closer to that of a multiple central place forager than of a central place forager. These results suggest that territory defense and food access may play an important role in sleeping site use of white-headed langurs [Current Zoology 57 （3）： 260-268, 2011].展开更多
Aim:To assess the contraceptive efficacy of the benzene chromatographic fraction of the chloroform extract of the seeds of Carica papaya in langur monkeys.Methods:The test substance was given p.o.to five monkeys at 50...Aim:To assess the contraceptive efficacy of the benzene chromatographic fraction of the chloroform extract of the seeds of Carica papaya in langur monkeys.Methods:The test substance was given p.o.to five monkeys at 50 mg/kg body weight/day for 360 days.Control animals(n=3)received olive oil as vehicle.Sperm parameters as per World Health Organization standards,sperm functional tests,morphology of testis and epididymis,haematology,clinical biochemistry,serum testosterone and libido were evaluated.Following completion of 360 days treatment the animals were withdrawn from the treatment and the recovery pattern was assessed by semen analysis and sperm functional tests.Results:Total inhibition of sperm motility was observed following 60 days of treatment that continued until 360 days study period.Sperm count,percent viability and percent normal spermatozoa showed a drastic decline following 30 days of treatment.Sperm morphology showed predominant mid piece abnormalities.Sperm functional tests scored in sterile range.Histology and ultrastructure of testis revealed vacuolization in the Sertoli cells and germ cells.Loss of cytoplasmic organelles was evident in spermatocytes and round spermatids.Histology and ultrastructure of epididymis of treated animals were comparable to those of control animals.Hematological and serum clinical parameters and testosterone levels fluctuated within the control range throughout the study period.Recovery was evident following 60--120 days of treatment withdrawal.Conclusion-The results suggest that the benzene chro-matographic fraction of the chloroform extract of the seeds of Carica papaya shows contraceptive efficacy without adverse toxicity,mediated through inhibition of sperm motility.(Asian JAndro12008 Mar;10:298-306)展开更多
Infanticide by males is a common phenomenon in mammals, especially primates, as lactation lasts much longer than gestation in many species. Usually, infanticidal episodes occur soon after group takeovers, and are trad...Infanticide by males is a common phenomenon in mammals, especially primates, as lactation lasts much longer than gestation in many species. Usually, infanticidal episodes occur soon after group takeovers, and are traditionally considered a male reproductive strategy （i.e., support the sexual selection hypothesis, Hrdy, 1974）. To verify the validity of this conception, we observed one group of Franqois＇ langurs in the Nonggang Nature Reserve, China, between August 2003 and July 2004. During the study period, a Francois＇ langur female with the youngest infant in the group was attacked three times by immigrating males, and later disappeared by the third day after the final attack. We suggest that these attacks on the female-infant dyad represent infanticide attempts by males, and may be the cause of the adult female and her infant＇s disappearance. Presumably, that female dispersed with her infant to avoid infanticide and was not killed. Though these observations do not completely verify the sexual selection hypothesis, they are not inconsistent with it.展开更多
DEAR EDITOR, The distribution of the capped langur （Trachypithecus pileatus） in China has become controversial since Shortridge＇s langur （Trachypithecus shortridgei） was upgraded to a full species. The capped lan...DEAR EDITOR, The distribution of the capped langur （Trachypithecus pileatus） in China has become controversial since Shortridge＇s langur （Trachypithecus shortridgei） was upgraded to a full species. The capped langur is considered to be distributed in northeast India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and northwest Myanmar only （Brandon-Jones et al., 2004; Choudhury, 2008, 2014; Das et al., 2008; Groves, 2001）. In our field survey, however, we obtained photos of the capped langur, demonstrating its existence in China. Following the species promotion of Shortridge＇s langur （Brandon-Jones et al., 2004; Groves, 2001） and the delimiting of its distribution range to northwestern Yunnan in China and northeastern Myanmar （Brandon-Jones et al., 2004; Cui et al.,展开更多
Highlight: The present report reveals for the first time natural lentiviral infection of wild Indian NHPs, rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) and langurs (Semnopithecus entellus) by SIVs that are phylogenetically diverse...Highlight: The present report reveals for the first time natural lentiviral infection of wild Indian NHPs, rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) and langurs (Semnopithecus entellus) by SIVs that are phylogenetically diverse from all known SIVs, including “SIVmac”, which infects captive rhesus monkeys. The novel SIVs are intriguingly homologous to HIV-1, based on serology and partial lentiviral genomic sequence analyses. Diverse lenti-viruses infect human and nonhuman primates (NHPs). There are more than 45 different “species-specific” simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) that infect their cognate NHP hosts in natural habitats in Africa. Indian NHPs are not known to be infected by SIVs in the wild. Conventionally SIVs are named after their natural hosts, except for SIVmac, which infects captive rather than wild rhesus macaques. SIVmac is therefore a misnomer. It is a genetic variant of the African SIVsmm, which infects wild African sooty mangabey monkeys. SIVsmm is the progenitor of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-2), while SIVcpz that infects wild chimpanzees is the progenitor of HIV-1. Although natural infections cannot be easily studied in wild NHP populations, we have previously reported co-infection of wild Indian NHPs by other retroviruses: simian retroviruses (SRVs) and Simian Foamy viruses (SFV). Apart from zoonosis, transmission of pathogens from humans to animals: anthroponosis, has also been reported in literature.展开更多
Habitat utilization and feeding biology of Himalayan Grey Langur （Semnopithecus entellus ajex） were studied from April, 2006 to April, 2007 in Machiara National Park, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The results sh...Habitat utilization and feeding biology of Himalayan Grey Langur （Semnopithecus entellus ajex） were studied from April, 2006 to April, 2007 in Machiara National Park, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The results showed that in the winter season the most preferred habitat of the langurs was the moist temperate coniferous forests interspersed with deciduous trees, while in the summer season they preferred to migrate into the subalpine scrub forests at higher altitudes. Langurs were folivorous in feeding habit, recorded as consuming more than 49 plant species （27 in summer and 22 in winter） in the study area. The mature leaves （36.12%） were preferred over the young leaves （27.27%） while other food components comprised of fruits （17.00%）, roots （9.45%）, barks （6.69%）, flowers （2.19%） and stems （1.28%） of various plant species.展开更多
Infanticide by males is a common phenomenon in mammals,especially primates,as lactation lasts much longer than gestation in many species.Usually,infanticidal episodes occur soon after group takeovers,and are tradition...Infanticide by males is a common phenomenon in mammals,especially primates,as lactation lasts much longer than gestation in many species.Usually,infanticidal episodes occur soon after group takeovers,and are traditionally considered a male reproductive strategy(i.e.,support the sexual selection hypothesis,Hrdy,1974).To verify the validity of this conception,we observed one group of François’langurs in the Nonggang Nature Reserve,China,between August 2003 and July 2004.During the study period,a François’langur female with the youngest infant in the group was attacked three times by immigrating males,and later disappeared by the third day after the final attack.We suggest that these attacks on the female-infant dyad represent infanticide attempts by males,and may be the cause of the adult female and her infant’s disappearance.Presumably,that female dispersed with her infant to avoid infanticide and was not killed.Though these observations do not completely verify the sexual selection hypothesis,they are not inconsistent with it.展开更多
The nominated property, Cat Ba Archipelago, includes Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, Cat Ba National Park, and Long Chau Island group, which belongs to Cat Hai District, Hal Phong City, Vietnam. Cat Ba Archipela...The nominated property, Cat Ba Archipelago, includes Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, Cat Ba National Park, and Long Chau Island group, which belongs to Cat Hai District, Hal Phong City, Vietnam. Cat Ba Archipelago represents the ongoing ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of Asia＇s characteristic marine and insular ecosystems, both tropical and subtropic. The nominated property is a high biodiversity center with 3,860 species of plants and animals on islands and in the sea, of which 130 species are recorded on the Red Lists of Nationally and Internationally Threatened Species, and 76 species on the IUCN Red List of Globally Threatened Species. The iconic Cat Ba white-headed langur （Trachypithecus poliocephalus） is an endemic species indigenous to Cat Ba Archipelago where at present one population of 63 individuals only survives but nowhere else in the world. The Cat Ba white-headed langur is recognized as a critically endangered species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild, thus needing urgent protection. The existence of another 20 endemic species in Cat Ba Archipelago shows that the process of evolution are on-going here, as new species continue to emerge in this unique archipelagic habitat.展开更多
In most group-living mammals,reproductive success declines with increasing age and increases with increasing rank.Such effects have mainly been studied in matrilineal and in“age positive”hierarchies,which are stable...In most group-living mammals,reproductive success declines with increasing age and increases with increasing rank.Such effects have mainly been studied in matrilineal and in“age positive”hierarchies,which are stable and in which high ranking females often outperform low ranking ones.These relationships are less well-understood in age-inversed dominance hierarchies,in which a female’s rank changes over time.We analyzed demographic data of 2 wild,unprovisioned groups of gray langurs(Semnopithecus schistaceus)near Ramnagar,Nepal covering periods of 5 years each.Female rank was unstable and age-inversed.We measured reproductive success via birth rates(57 births),infant survival(proportion of infants surviving to 2 years)and number of offspring surviving to 2 years of age(successful births)for 3 age and 3 rank classes.We found that old females performed significantly worse than expected(birth rate P=0.04;successful births P=0.03).The same was true for low ranking females(P=0.04,and P<0.01,respectively).Infant survival was highest for young and middle-aged as well as for high and middle ranking females.Overall,the results for these unstable hierarchies were rather similar to those for stable hierarchies of other mammals,particularly several nonhuman primates.Compared to a provisioned population of a closely related species,the wild and unprovisioned population examined(i)showed stronger age effects,while(ii)female reproductive success was equally affected by rank.Future comparative studies are needed to examine whether captive or provisioned populations deviate predictably from wild populations.展开更多
We collected data on habitat use and locomotion of the François’langur(Trachypithecus francoisi)between August 2003 and July 2004 at Nonggang Nature Reserve,China.A total of 739 h of behavioral data were collect...We collected data on habitat use and locomotion of the François’langur(Trachypithecus francoisi)between August 2003 and July 2004 at Nonggang Nature Reserve,China.A total of 739 h of behavioral data were collected during this study.We tested 2 predictions:(1)that the langurs may have special patterns of habitat use and locomotion adaptive to the limestone habitat,and(2)the langurs may exhibit different patterns of habitat use and locomotion among different zones of limestone hill.Our results indicated that François’langurs spent more time in the low-risk,relatively food-poor cliff-hilltop areas.When young leaves and fruit were scarce in the dry season,the langurs increased their time in the high-risk,food-rich valley basin.François’langurs were semi-terrestrial,and leaping and climbing were their main locomotor modes.These behavioral patterns are considered to be related to characteristics of topography and vegetation in limestone habitat,such as large areas of cliff and discontinuous canopy.Our results also supported Prediction 2.The langurs confined locomotion to the main canopy and frequently adopted leaping while traveling in the hillside and valley basin.While traveling in cliff-hilltop areas,they tended to stay in the lower stratus(≤5 m)or move on the ground,and walking and climbing were their dominant traveling modes.展开更多
Ranging behavior is an important aspect of animal behavior that researchers use to investigate ecological influences on individual behavior.We collected data on the ranging behavior of one group of François’lang...Ranging behavior is an important aspect of animal behavior that researchers use to investigate ecological influences on individual behavior.We collected data on the ranging behavior of one group of François’langurs(Trachypithecus francoisi)between August 2003 and July 2004 in a limestone habitat within Nonggang Nature Reserve,China.We evaluated the influences of food availability,water resources and sleeping sites on ranging behavior.During the study period,the total home range size for the study group was 64.5 or(69.3 ha if the lacunae within the borders in which langurs were not observed were included),and the mean daily path length was 541 m.These are well within the range of variation reported in Trachypithecus species.The monthly range size was between 9.8 and 23.3 ha,and monthly range size correlated negatively with young leaf availability.The langurs tended to use a larger range size during young leaf-lean periods.The langurs did not use their home range uniformly,and 74%of their activities occurred within 35%of their home range.The most heavily used quadrats in the home range were located near the most frequently used sleeping sites,suggesting that sleeping sites have a significant influence on the ranging behavior of François’langurs in limestone habitats.展开更多
文摘We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and Francois＇ langurs T.francoisi to test two hypotheses： （1） these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their activities on limestone hills, and （2） Francois＇ langurs have evolved more diverse locomotor skills than white-headed langurs. Data were collected from 1996 - 1998 and in 2005 in Fusui Nature Reserve, Guangxi, and showed that the two species had similar locomotor types, but Francois＇ langurs had more locomotor modes （26） than white-headed langurs （12）. Quadrupedal walking and leaping were two major types, and white-headed langurs were more arboreal than Francois＇ langurs. We suggest that, while keeping their ancestral locomotor types, the two species have evolved new types allowing them to live on limestone cliffs. Compared to white-headed langurs, Francois＇ langurs have more diverse locomotor modes that probably have allowed them to live in more habitat types. As an evolutionary outcome, Francois＇ langurs have a larger distribution range .
文摘The utilization of caves is a rather rare phenomenon in nonhuman primates, found almost exclusively in those members of the genus Trachypithecus that share a preference for forest on limestone （karst） hills in Vietnam and southern China. Here we report a new case of usage of caves as overnight sleeping shelters by Franqois＇ or black langurs （Trachypithecusfraru;oisi） at Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Yanhe County, Guizhou Province, China. We tentatively address three possible hypotheses that may account for the use of caves in Francois＇ langurs at Mayanghe： shelter against climatic conditions, acquisition of minerals and protection from predators. utilization
文摘Aim:To evaluate the safety of the long term vas occlusion with styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) and its non-invasive reversal at the level of accessory reproductive glands (ARGs) in langurs.Methods:The morphology of seminal vesicle and ventral prostate was evaluated by light as well as transmission electron microscopy.Serum clinical chemistry and urine albumin were evaluated in an autoanalyzer using reagent kits.Fructose,acid phosphatase and zinc in the seminal plasma were evaluated spectrophotometrically according to the WHO manual.Serum testosterone, prostate specific antigen and sperm antibodies were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using reagent kits and hematology was estimated according to standard procedures.Results:The morphological features and secretory activity of the seminal vesicle and prostate were normal as evidenced by the presence of well- developed mitochondria,rough endoplasmic reticulum,Golgi bodies,secretory granules and normal nuclear charac- teristics throughout the course of investigation.Serum testosterone and prostate specific antigen remained unaltered and serum antisperm antibodies level presented negative titres.Urine albumin was nil.Total red blood corpuscles (RBC),white blood corpuscles (WBC),hemoglobin (Hb) and red cell indices,serum protein,glucose,cholesterol, creatinine,creatine kinase (CK),serum glutamate oxalate transaminase (SGOT),serum glutamate pyruvate transami- nase (SGPT),lactate dehydrogenase (LDH),bilirubin,urea,triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) did not show appreciable changes following vas occlusion and after its non-invasive reversal.Although fructose,acid phos- phatase (ACP) and zinc in the seminal plasma showed a significant reduction following vas occlusion,it could not be related to the morphology of seminal vesicle and prostate.Conclusion:SMA vas occlusion and its non-invasive reversal do not damage the accessory reproductive organs.
基金financially supported by the 985 Project of Peking University and MEXT gCOE(A06 to Kyoto University).
文摘Infanticide was first observed in langurs nearly 50 years ago,and this rare phenomenon has been inferred to have either an evolutionarily adaptive function or to be a pathological and non-functional behavior.In this study,we report 5 male takeover events in one-male groups of white-headed langurs in the Nongguan Karst Hills,Guangxi,China from 1998 to 2006.We recorded 13 attacks on 9 infants by extra-group males or new resident males.During the male takeovers,all of the infants younger than 6 months(with an average age of 3.6 months[N=11])in the groups disappeared.The infant death rate during the 4.2 months after takeover by a new male was significantly higher than the infant death rate calculated for most of the year.Older infants that were still nursing(with an average age of 14.1 months[N=7])were often attacked and seriously wounded by the extra-group males or new resident males,but all of them survived.The interbirth intervals of females whose infants were assumed to be killed by males were significantly reduced relative to those of females in groups with stable male tenure(mean=10 months vs 25 months).Our data suggest that males kill unrelated and unweaned infants during the takeover period to decrease the time until the infants’mothers resume fertility.Thus,infanticide would support sexual selection theory in white-headed langurs.The data also show that infanticidal behavior was directed toward the infants,especially those who were still nursing.Female dispersal may function as a counter-strategy to avoid infanticide.
基金sponsored by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(Nos.31172122 and 30970376)the Guangxi Nature Science Foundation(2012GXNSFAA053039)+1 种基金the PhD Degree Construction Fund of Guangxi(XKY2006ZD01)the White-headed Langur Monitoring Project of the National Forestry Administration of China and the Project of the Creative Team from Colleges and Universities in Guangxi.
文摘We collected fecal samples of white-headed langurs from 3 of the 4 remaining habitat fragments(Fa,Fb and CZ)located in southwestern Guangxi,China in Nov 2005,and used 5 microsatellite loci and the SRY gene to assess the relatedness between 46 langurs within and between groups.We observed 2 forms of group structure:one-male/multi-female groups(OMGs)and all-male groups(AMGs).One AMG in Fa was composed of 2 generations,included a father,2 sons and 1 unrelated male,and all OMGs in all 3 habitats included 1 resident male,several adult females and offspring.Of the 21 identified father-offspring cases,the resident male fathered 20(95%)and the non-resident male sired 1(5%),suggesting that adult males had overwhelming priority of access to females as the resident male in an OMG,while the non-resident male may also have the opportunity to adopt surreptitious mating strategies.
基金Supported by Guizhou Science and Technology Foundation[(2007)2164]Guizhou Science and Technology Plan Project[(2012)3058]~~
文摘The ecological environmental changes of Francois langur natural reserve was monitored during Pengshui Reservoir construction and influence of reservoir fil-ing on the habitat of the natural reserve was analyzed to provide the scientific basis and basic data for scientific evaluation and protection of original ecological environ-ment of the natural reserve and Francois langur’s habitat, and vegetation recover. The results showed that 4.8 hm2 of the nature reserve was submerged after reser-voir fil ing, which occupied for 0.1% of total area of the natural reserve only. The main influence area was in the submerged area of Hongdu River basin. The water level rise resulted in partial changes in land utilization and soil erosion, which indi-cates that reservoir fil ing has insignificant effect on ecological environment of the whole natural reserve.
基金supported by Research Funds of the National Nature Science Foundation of China （No, 30860050）, Guangxi Science Foundation （0991095）, Foundation of Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation （Ministry of Education）, China West Normal University, Protection and Assessment, Monitoring and Conservation of Langur Project of National Forestry Administration of China, and Guangxi Beibu Gulf Serious Specialisation of Guangxi Natural Sciences Foundation （No. 2010GXNSFE013004）. We thank the Guangxi Forestry Bureau, and Fusui Rare Animal Nature Reserve. We thank Dr. Ali Krzton for her assistance with language editing. We also ac- knowledge the critical comments of four anonymous reviewers.
文摘We collected data on sleeping site use from two groups of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus living in Fusui Nature Reserve, China between August 2007 and July 2008. This information was used to test several hypotheses regarding ultimate causes of sleeping site use in this primate. White-headed langurs slept either in caves （17 sites） or on a cliffledge （one site）. They used all sleeping sites repeatedly, and reused some of them on consecutive nights; three nights was the longest consecutive use of any one sleep site. We suggest that langurs use sleeping sites to make approach and attack by predators difficult, and to increase their own familiarity with a location so as to improve chances for escape. Langurs＇ cryptic behaviors with an increased level of vigilance before entering sleeping sites may also help in decreasing the possibility of detection by predators. Group 1 spent more sleeping nights in the central area of their territory than expected; in contrast, group 2 spent more sleeping nights in the periphery of their territory, which overlaps with that of another groups, than expected. The position of sleeping site relative to the last feeding site of the day and the first feeding site of the subsequent morning indicated a strategy closer to that of a multiple central place forager than of a central place forager. These results suggest that territory defense and food access may play an important role in sleeping site use of white-headed langurs [Current Zoology 57 （3）： 260-268, 2011].
文摘Aim:To assess the contraceptive efficacy of the benzene chromatographic fraction of the chloroform extract of the seeds of Carica papaya in langur monkeys.Methods:The test substance was given p.o.to five monkeys at 50 mg/kg body weight/day for 360 days.Control animals(n=3)received olive oil as vehicle.Sperm parameters as per World Health Organization standards,sperm functional tests,morphology of testis and epididymis,haematology,clinical biochemistry,serum testosterone and libido were evaluated.Following completion of 360 days treatment the animals were withdrawn from the treatment and the recovery pattern was assessed by semen analysis and sperm functional tests.Results:Total inhibition of sperm motility was observed following 60 days of treatment that continued until 360 days study period.Sperm count,percent viability and percent normal spermatozoa showed a drastic decline following 30 days of treatment.Sperm morphology showed predominant mid piece abnormalities.Sperm functional tests scored in sterile range.Histology and ultrastructure of testis revealed vacuolization in the Sertoli cells and germ cells.Loss of cytoplasmic organelles was evident in spermatocytes and round spermatids.Histology and ultrastructure of epididymis of treated animals were comparable to those of control animals.Hematological and serum clinical parameters and testosterone levels fluctuated within the control range throughout the study period.Recovery was evident following 60--120 days of treatment withdrawal.Conclusion-The results suggest that the benzene chro-matographic fraction of the chloroform extract of the seeds of Carica papaya shows contraceptive efficacy without adverse toxicity,mediated through inhibition of sperm motility.(Asian JAndro12008 Mar;10:298-306)
基金supported by National Nature Science Foundation of China (31172122)Guangxi Nature Science Foundation (2012GXNSFAA053039)
文摘Infanticide by males is a common phenomenon in mammals, especially primates, as lactation lasts much longer than gestation in many species. Usually, infanticidal episodes occur soon after group takeovers, and are traditionally considered a male reproductive strategy （i.e., support the sexual selection hypothesis, Hrdy, 1974）. To verify the validity of this conception, we observed one group of Franqois＇ langurs in the Nonggang Nature Reserve, China, between August 2003 and July 2004. During the study period, a Francois＇ langur female with the youngest infant in the group was attacked three times by immigrating males, and later disappeared by the third day after the final attack. We suggest that these attacks on the female-infant dyad represent infanticide attempts by males, and may be the cause of the adult female and her infant＇s disappearance. Presumably, that female dispersed with her infant to avoid infanticide and was not killed. Though these observations do not completely verify the sexual selection hypothesis, they are not inconsistent with it.
基金supported by the Second National Survey of Terrestrial Wildlife Resources of the State Forestry Administration of China(Semnopithecus schistaceus Project,No.176 Geographic Unit Project)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31400361)+1 种基金the Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangdong Province,China(2013B061800042)the National Key Program(2016YFC0503200)from the Ministry of Science and Technology of China
文摘DEAR EDITOR, The distribution of the capped langur （Trachypithecus pileatus） in China has become controversial since Shortridge＇s langur （Trachypithecus shortridgei） was upgraded to a full species. The capped langur is considered to be distributed in northeast India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and northwest Myanmar only （Brandon-Jones et al., 2004; Choudhury, 2008, 2014; Das et al., 2008; Groves, 2001）. In our field survey, however, we obtained photos of the capped langur, demonstrating its existence in China. Following the species promotion of Shortridge＇s langur （Brandon-Jones et al., 2004; Groves, 2001） and the delimiting of its distribution range to northwestern Yunnan in China and northeastern Myanmar （Brandon-Jones et al., 2004; Cui et al.,
文摘Highlight: The present report reveals for the first time natural lentiviral infection of wild Indian NHPs, rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) and langurs (Semnopithecus entellus) by SIVs that are phylogenetically diverse from all known SIVs, including “SIVmac”, which infects captive rhesus monkeys. The novel SIVs are intriguingly homologous to HIV-1, based on serology and partial lentiviral genomic sequence analyses. Diverse lenti-viruses infect human and nonhuman primates (NHPs). There are more than 45 different “species-specific” simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) that infect their cognate NHP hosts in natural habitats in Africa. Indian NHPs are not known to be infected by SIVs in the wild. Conventionally SIVs are named after their natural hosts, except for SIVmac, which infects captive rather than wild rhesus macaques. SIVmac is therefore a misnomer. It is a genetic variant of the African SIVsmm, which infects wild African sooty mangabey monkeys. SIVsmm is the progenitor of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-2), while SIVcpz that infects wild chimpanzees is the progenitor of HIV-1. Although natural infections cannot be easily studied in wild NHP populations, we have previously reported co-infection of wild Indian NHPs by other retroviruses: simian retroviruses (SRVs) and Simian Foamy viruses (SFV). Apart from zoonosis, transmission of pathogens from humans to animals: anthroponosis, has also been reported in literature.
文摘Habitat utilization and feeding biology of Himalayan Grey Langur （Semnopithecus entellus ajex） were studied from April, 2006 to April, 2007 in Machiara National Park, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The results showed that in the winter season the most preferred habitat of the langurs was the moist temperate coniferous forests interspersed with deciduous trees, while in the summer season they preferred to migrate into the subalpine scrub forests at higher altitudes. Langurs were folivorous in feeding habit, recorded as consuming more than 49 plant species （27 in summer and 22 in winter） in the study area. The mature leaves （36.12%） were preferred over the young leaves （27.27%） while other food components comprised of fruits （17.00%）, roots （9.45%）, barks （6.69%）, flowers （2.19%） and stems （1.28%） of various plant species.
基金supported by National Nature Science Foundation of China(31172122)Guangxi Nature Science Foundation(2012GXNSFAA053039)。
文摘Infanticide by males is a common phenomenon in mammals,especially primates,as lactation lasts much longer than gestation in many species.Usually,infanticidal episodes occur soon after group takeovers,and are traditionally considered a male reproductive strategy(i.e.,support the sexual selection hypothesis,Hrdy,1974).To verify the validity of this conception,we observed one group of François’langurs in the Nonggang Nature Reserve,China,between August 2003 and July 2004.During the study period,a François’langur female with the youngest infant in the group was attacked three times by immigrating males,and later disappeared by the third day after the final attack.We suggest that these attacks on the female-infant dyad represent infanticide attempts by males,and may be the cause of the adult female and her infant’s disappearance.Presumably,that female dispersed with her infant to avoid infanticide and was not killed.Though these observations do not completely verify the sexual selection hypothesis,they are not inconsistent with it.
文摘The nominated property, Cat Ba Archipelago, includes Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, Cat Ba National Park, and Long Chau Island group, which belongs to Cat Hai District, Hal Phong City, Vietnam. Cat Ba Archipelago represents the ongoing ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of Asia＇s characteristic marine and insular ecosystems, both tropical and subtropic. The nominated property is a high biodiversity center with 3,860 species of plants and animals on islands and in the sea, of which 130 species are recorded on the Red Lists of Nationally and Internationally Threatened Species, and 76 species on the IUCN Red List of Globally Threatened Species. The iconic Cat Ba white-headed langur （Trachypithecus poliocephalus） is an endemic species indigenous to Cat Ba Archipelago where at present one population of 63 individuals only survives but nowhere else in the world. The Cat Ba white-headed langur is recognized as a critically endangered species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild, thus needing urgent protection. The existence of another 20 endemic species in Cat Ba Archipelago shows that the process of evolution are on-going here, as new species continue to emerge in this unique archipelagic habitat.
文摘In most group-living mammals,reproductive success declines with increasing age and increases with increasing rank.Such effects have mainly been studied in matrilineal and in“age positive”hierarchies,which are stable and in which high ranking females often outperform low ranking ones.These relationships are less well-understood in age-inversed dominance hierarchies,in which a female’s rank changes over time.We analyzed demographic data of 2 wild,unprovisioned groups of gray langurs(Semnopithecus schistaceus)near Ramnagar,Nepal covering periods of 5 years each.Female rank was unstable and age-inversed.We measured reproductive success via birth rates(57 births),infant survival(proportion of infants surviving to 2 years)and number of offspring surviving to 2 years of age(successful births)for 3 age and 3 rank classes.We found that old females performed significantly worse than expected(birth rate P=0.04;successful births P=0.03).The same was true for low ranking females(P=0.04,and P<0.01,respectively).Infant survival was highest for young and middle-aged as well as for high and middle ranking females.Overall,the results for these unstable hierarchies were rather similar to those for stable hierarchies of other mammals,particularly several nonhuman primates.Compared to a provisioned population of a closely related species,the wild and unprovisioned population examined(i)showed stronger age effects,while(ii)female reproductive success was equally affected by rank.Future comparative studies are needed to examine whether captive or provisioned populations deviate predictably from wild populations.
基金financially supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.30560023,30860050,31172122)the Guangxi Nature Science Foundation(2012GXNSFAA053039)the Monitoring and Conservation of Langur Project of the National Forestry Administration of China.
文摘We collected data on habitat use and locomotion of the François’langur(Trachypithecus francoisi)between August 2003 and July 2004 at Nonggang Nature Reserve,China.A total of 739 h of behavioral data were collected during this study.We tested 2 predictions:(1)that the langurs may have special patterns of habitat use and locomotion adaptive to the limestone habitat,and(2)the langurs may exhibit different patterns of habitat use and locomotion among different zones of limestone hill.Our results indicated that François’langurs spent more time in the low-risk,relatively food-poor cliff-hilltop areas.When young leaves and fruit were scarce in the dry season,the langurs increased their time in the high-risk,food-rich valley basin.François’langurs were semi-terrestrial,and leaping and climbing were their main locomotor modes.These behavioral patterns are considered to be related to characteristics of topography and vegetation in limestone habitat,such as large areas of cliff and discontinuous canopy.Our results also supported Prediction 2.The langurs confined locomotion to the main canopy and frequently adopted leaping while traveling in the hillside and valley basin.While traveling in cliff-hilltop areas,they tended to stay in the lower stratus(≤5 m)or move on the ground,and walking and climbing were their dominant traveling modes.
基金This study is sponsored by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.39960015,30560023,30860050)the Chinese Academy of Sciences 100 Talent Program,the Monitoring and Conservation of Langur Project of the National Forestry Administration of China,the Guangxi Science Foundation(0991095)and the Project of the Creative Team from Colleges and Universities in Guangxi.We thank the Guangxi Forestry Bureau and the Nonggang Nature Reserve Administration Bureau.
文摘Ranging behavior is an important aspect of animal behavior that researchers use to investigate ecological influences on individual behavior.We collected data on the ranging behavior of one group of François’langurs(Trachypithecus francoisi)between August 2003 and July 2004 in a limestone habitat within Nonggang Nature Reserve,China.We evaluated the influences of food availability,water resources and sleeping sites on ranging behavior.During the study period,the total home range size for the study group was 64.5 or(69.3 ha if the lacunae within the borders in which langurs were not observed were included),and the mean daily path length was 541 m.These are well within the range of variation reported in Trachypithecus species.The monthly range size was between 9.8 and 23.3 ha,and monthly range size correlated negatively with young leaf availability.The langurs tended to use a larger range size during young leaf-lean periods.The langurs did not use their home range uniformly,and 74%of their activities occurred within 35%of their home range.The most heavily used quadrats in the home range were located near the most frequently used sleeping sites,suggesting that sleeping sites have a significant influence on the ranging behavior of François’langurs in limestone habitats.
