Population Of Long-tailed Macaques Research Articles

In vitro evaluation of oral contraceptives on long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) primary ovarian cells

Hormonal contraception has been advocated as an alternative population control method for the long-tailed macaque population, which has increased exponentially due to anthropogenic changes and incidental food subsidies from human food waste. Risks of increased zoonosis and conflict are imminent if the population growth of long-tailed macaques is unchecked. However, there's a gap in the literature about the effect of hormonal contraceptives on long-tailed macaque reproductive tissues cell line. The present study aims to investigate the effect of oral contraceptives (Nordette, Noriday, and Ella) on long-tailed macaque ovarian cells. We determine the cell viability and cytotoxicity as well as the morphological changes of the drugs on long-tailed macaque ovarian cells using the MTT assay, Acridine orange/propidium iodide double staining method, morphological examination, and the 4, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining method. For the MTT assay, The drugs were dissolved in culture media before use to have a concentration ranging from 0.5 μg/mL, 2.5 μg/mL, 0.125 μg/mL, 0.0625 μg/mL, and 0.0315 μg/mL to have three replicates for each treatment.In contrast, the concentration of 0.0315 μg/mL was used for the morphological and histopathological analysis. The result of the study indicates that human oral contraceptives (Nordette, Noriday, and Ella) inhibit the growth of long-tailed macaque ovarian cells and induce apoptosis in a concentration- and time-dependent manner (at a concentration of 0.0315 μg/mL and an IC50 lower than 10 μg/mL), With a statistically significant value of ****P < 0.001 for each drug compared to the negative control. The result of the present study contributes toward addressing the gap in the literature on the effect of oral contraceptives in long-tailed macaque ovarian cells. Hence, we conclude that human oral contraceptives (Nordette, Noriday, and Ella) are safe and effective in long-tailed macaque ovarian cells as such could be used to develop non-invasive oral contraceptives for controlling the population of long-tailed macaques as an alternative population control method.

A model for the noninvasive, habitat-inclusive estimation of upper limit abundance for synanthropes, exemplified by M. fascicularis.

Accurately estimating population sizes for free-ranging animals through noninvasive methods, such as camera trap images, remains particularly limited by small datasets. To overcome this, we developed a flexible model for estimating upper limit populations and exemplified it by studying a group-living synanthrope, the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis). Habitat preference maps, based on environmental and GPS data, were generated with a maximum entropy model and combined with data obtained from camera traps, line transect distance sampling, and direct sightings to produce an expected number of individuals. The mapping between habitat preference and number of individuals was optimized through a tunable parameter ρ (inquisitiveness) that accounts for repeated observations of individuals. Benchmarking against published data highlights the high accuracy of the model. Overall, this approach combines citizen science with scientific observations and reveals the long-tailed macaque populations to be (up to 80%) smaller than expected. The model's flexibility makes it suitable for many species, providing a scalable, noninvasive tool for wildlife conservation.

Introduced Non-Human Primates and Potential Wildlife-Human Conflict: A Case Study of the Long-Tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis) Population on Bonerate and Kalao, Selayar Islands, South Sulawesi

Human activities such as population growth, agricultural practices, resource extraction, and urbanization have reduced the functional and structural complexity of ecosystems in small island regions. Landscape changes, including deforestation and habitat fragmentation, have diminished available habitats and increased interactions between primates and humans. In our study, we focused on Kalao and Bonerate Islands in South Sulawesi to evaluate the impact of introduced long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) on biodiversity and to examine potential human-macaque conflicts. Data were collected through direct field observations to estimate the long-tailed macaque population and habitat use, and through interviews with local residents to understand their perceptions of the species' presence. We estimated the long-tailed macaque population at 1,408 individuals on Bonerate Island and 2,266 individuals on Kalao Island. The long-tailed macaque population density was 0.85 individuals per hectare in secondary forest on Bonerate Island, 0.44 individuals per hectare in old secondary forest on Kalao Island, and 0.18 individuals per hectare in secondary forest on Kalao Island. There is significant potential for human-macaque conflict due to long-tailed macaque crop raiding on both islands, resulting in considerable losses for farmers. Effective management of the introduced long-tailed macaque populations in Kalao and Bonerate requires a comprehensive approach that considers ecological, socio-economic, and conservation aspects. Further data analysis is essential to develop and implement appropriate strategies to address the challenges posed by these introduced populations.

Influence of COVID-19 on the emergence of stone-tool use behavior in a population of common long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis fascicularis) in Thailand.

Stone tool use is a rare behavior across nonhuman primates. Here we report the first population of common long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis fascicularis) who customarily used stone tools to open rock oysters (Saccostrea forskali) on a small island along the Thai Gulf in Koh Ped (KPE), eastern Thailand. We observed this population several times during the past 10 years, but no stone-tool use behavior was observed until our survey during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in July 2022. KPE is located in Pattaya City, a hotspot for tourism in Thailand. Tourists in this area frequently provided large amounts of food for the monkeys on KPE. During the COVID-19 curfew, however, tourists were not allowed to access the island, and monkeys began to face food scarcity. During this time, we observed stone-tool use behavior for the first time on KPE. Based on our observations, the first tool manipulation was similar to stone throwing (a known precursor of stone tool use). From our observations in March 2023, we found 17 subadult/adult animals performing the behavior, 15 of 17 were males and mostly solitary while performing the behavior. The M. f. fascicularis subspecies was confirmed by distribution, morphological characteristics, and mtDNA and SRY gene sequences. Taken together, we proposed that the stone tool use behavior in the KPE common long-tailed macaques emerged due to the COVID-19 food scarcity. Since traveling is no longer restricted many tourists have started coming back to the island, and there is a high risk for this stone tool-use behavior to disappear within this population of long-tailed macaques.

Diversity of Long-tailed Macaque Food Trees (Macaca fascicularis) at The Tapos National Park Management Resort Area, Mount Gede Pangrango National Park

: Long-tailed macaque (LTM) are arboreal primates which have an ecological function as seed dispersers and as controllers of insect populations in their habitat. LTM populations were found in the Tapos National Park Management Resort forest area, MGPNP. The existence of food trees greatly influences the existence and activity of LTM, so knowledge about the diversity of LTM food trees in the Tapos National Park Management Resort area is very important to do. This research aims to determine the level of species dominance in the plant community and diversity of LTM food trees in the Pasir Koja and Pasir Beunyeng Forest Blocks, Tapos Management Resort Area. Data collection on LTM food trees was carried out using the grid line method of vegetation analysis. Data processing was carried out by calculating the importance value index (IVI) of food tree vegetation and calculating the diversity index (H') of food tree species. The results showed that the highest IVI value in the Pasir Koja forest block was Bamboo (Bambusa sp.) with a value of 106.76%, while Ki acret (Spathodea campanulata) had the lowest IVI value of 10.65%. Meanwhile, the highest IVI value in the Pasir Beunyeng forest block was Kaliandra (Calliandra surinamensis) with an IVI of 166.60%, while reed bamboo (Gigantochloa atter) had the lowest IVI value of 17.62%. The food tree species diversity index in the Pasir Koja and Pasir Beunyeng forest blocks is categorized as low.

Emergent technological variation in archaeological landscapes: a primate perspective.

Archaeological evidence informs our understanding of the evolution of hominin behaviour. Such evidence is traditionally used to reconstruct hominin activities and intentions. In the Plio-Pleistocene, the presence or absence of specific tools and variation in artefact density is often used to infer foraging strategies, cognitive traits and functional activities. However, the Plio-Pleistocene archaeological record is known to be time-averaged and forms through the aggregation of repeated behavioural events over time. Thus, archaeological patterns do not reflect discrete episodes of activity, but rather the interaction of behaviour with environmental factors over time. However, little is known about how such interactions produce archaeological variation diversity. Primate archaeology can help address this research gap by providing the opportunity to observe how behaviour produces material patterns in a natural setting. This study, thus, examines how varying the material properties of stone and resource availability influence the artefactual signature of nut-cracking in a population of long-tailed macaques from Lobi Bay, Yao Noi island, Thailand. Results show that these interactions can produce a structured and diverse material signature in terms of artefact density and frequency of specific artefact types. These findings demonstrate how material patterns can emerge from long-term interactions between behaviour and environmental factors.

Population Assessment and Threats to Long-Tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis Raffles) in Areas Outside Sumile Botanical and Zoological Park, Butuan City, Philippines

Long-tailed macaques overlap extensively with humans across their ranges in Southeast Asia and consequently live together in several locations. Human-macaque interactions were documented in the neighboring Sumile Zoological and Botanical Park in Barangay Sumile, Butuan City. Due to anthropogenic activities resulting to the loss of their natural habitat, the macaques are forced to live within human settlements resulting to a positive and negative interactions which greatly affected their population. The primary objective of this study is to assess the population of long-tailed macaques in Maibu, Butuan City. We also identified the current threats, as well as the food sources of the macaques in the area. The results showed that the current estimated population of long-tailed macaques was about 688 individuals. Based on key informant interviews, the threats to long-tailed macaque populations were attributed to mining activities, deforestation through illegal logging, and the prevalent wildlife hunting. Furthermore, researchers found that fruit trees, such as coconut, banana, papaya, mango, and root crops, such as sweet potatoes, cassava, and taro, are the main sources of food. Researchers recommend expanding the scope of future studies to include home ranges, range distances, and potential sites, to obtain a larger sample size to effectively plan conservation measures of the species.

Analyses of Vegetation Used by Long-tailed Macaque (&lt;i&gt;Macaca fascicularis&lt;/i&gt; Raffles 1821) in Tinjil Island

Tinjil Island is a semi-natural breeding facility for long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) managed by Primate Research Center, IPB University, located at the southern of Java Island and surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Long-tailed macaques are considered frugivorous even though they are well-known for their flexible diet. This study aims to analyse the vegetation supporting the population of long-tailed macaques. Data were collected from six tracks using square sampling plots with the size of 20 m x 20 m for trees as the main plot, inside the main plot were square subplots consisting of 10 m x 10 m for poles, 5 m x 5 m for saplings, and 2 m x 2 m for seedlings. The Important Value Index (IVI) was calculated for each level of vegetation. Hanjuang (Dracaena elliptica) dominated the seedlings with 29.35%, followed by Kampis (Hernandia peltata) with 18.73%, and Kalapari (Pongamia pinnata) with 13.73%. Hanjuang (Dracaena elliptica) also dominated the saplings with 26.83%, followed by Pancal (Syzygium antisepticum) with 19.19%, and Laban (Vitex pubescens) with 12.30%. The poles were dominated by Ki Cau (Dolichandrone spathacea) as high as 59.28%, while Waru (Thespesia populnea) and Ki Ciat (Ficus septica) dominated at 40.47% and 36.15%, respectively. Kampis (Hernandia peltata) dominated the trees with 39.28%, followed by Ki Ara (Ficus glomerata) with 35.56%, and Ki Langir (Dysoxylum amooroides) with 28.70%. Species found on Tinjil Island are mostly Moraceae (9.84%) and Fabaceae (9.84%), followed by Malvaceae (8.20%), Euphorbiaceae (4.92%), Myrtaceae (4.92%), and Anacardiaceae (4.92%). The vegetation in Tinjil Island supports the livelihood of long-tailed macaques on the island because they have an abundance of food and staple food such as figs to help them fulfil the energy needed to survive and reproduce.

Estimation of Minimum Viable Population of Long-tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis Raffles 1821) in Support of Wildlife Management in Ir. H. Djuanda Grand Forest Park

Most long-tailed macaques (LTMs) in Southeast Asia are commensal animals, which means they can coexist and benefit from humans. This interaction potentially triggers disturbance and disease transmission caused by LTMs, for instance, in Ir. Djuanda Grand Forest Park (GFP). A previous study indicates an overpopulation of LTMs in this area. The need for population control of this macaque requires appropriate ecological considerations, including determining the minimum viable population (MVP). This study aims to estimate the MVP of LTMs in Ir. Djuanda GFP area is the key input for its population control scheme. The MVP is determined based on population growth simulation using the Lefkovitch matrix. In combination with the estimate of population growth, the MVP was used to formulate the population control scheme of LTMs, by considering the current wildlife management regulations and the perception of Ir. Djuanda GFP area manager obtained through interviews. This study found six groups of LTMs in Ir. Djuanda GFP with a total population of 229 individuals, a sex ratio of 1:1.05, an age class ratio of infants, juveniles, sub-adults, and adults of 16.6%:25.7%:32,3%:25.3%, and a population growth rate of 19.7%/year. The estimate of MVP of this primate is 230 individuals, with an average group size of 38 individuals and an age class ratio of infants, juveniles, sub-adults, and adults 30%:9.1%:27.4%:23.5%. Based on wildlife management regulations and area manager perceptions, population control schemes can be implemented for relocation and captive purposes. The population control scheme consists of an age-class control scheme and a group control scheme. The age-class control scheme controls the population by 334 individuals, while the colony control scheme controls 406 individuals.

Acquisition of object-robbing and object/food-bartering behaviours: a culturally maintained token economy in free-ranging long-tailed macaques

The token exchange paradigm shows that monkeys and great apes are able to use objects as symbolic tools to request specific food rewards. Such studies provide insights into the cognitive underpinnings of economic behaviour in non-human primates. However, the ecological validity of these laboratory-based experimental situations tends to be limited. Our field research aims to address the need for a more ecologically valid primate model of trading systems in humans. Around the Uluwatu Temple in Bali, Indonesia, a large free-ranging population of long-tailed macaques spontaneously and routinely engage in token-mediated bartering interactions with humans. These interactions occur in two phases: after stealing inedible and more or less valuable objects from humans, the macaques appear to use them as tokens, by returning them to humans in exchange for food. Our field observational and experimental data showed (i) age differences in robbing/bartering success, indicative of experiential learning, and (ii) clear behavioural associations between value-based token possession and quantity or quality of food rewards rejected and accepted by subadult and adult monkeys, suggestive of robbing/bartering payoff maximization and economic decision-making. This population-specific, prevalent, cross-generational, learned and socially influenced practice may be the first example of a culturally maintained token economy in free-ranging animals.This article is part of the theme issue ‘Existence and prevalence of economic behaviours among non-human primates'.

Affiliation among subadult males varies between populations of long-tailed macaques

The patterns of affiliative interactions between subadult males are not well known. In female philopatric species, like long-tailed macaques, such relationships may be important in fully understanding socioecological contexts and processes. Subadult males have particularly important relationships with other males, often associated with the challenges of dispersal. This study assesses the patterns of affiliation among subadult males by comparing data from two allopatric populations. We collected over 400 hours of behavioral data on 27 total subadult male long-tailed macaques in Bali, Indonesia. We found that patterns of affiliation between subadult males measured by dyadic interaction rates and individual interaction rate composites varied between these populations. We observed significant variation across three domains of affiliative behavior: (1) resting in spatial proximity, (2) allogrooming, and (3) affiliative gesture exchanges. In each context, the subadult males of one population exhibited higher rates of affiliation than the other. We conclude patterns of affiliation between subadult males, and the importance of maintaining those relationships, respond to variation in socioecological contexts that may be population-specific rather than species-specific.

Distribution of long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) in Kelimutu National Park

Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) are one of the mammals that live in Kelimutu National Park (Kelimutu NP). This mammal, in its natural habitat, has an impact on buffer zones in the form of animal activities that damage crops on plantation lands. The purpose of this study was to identify the distribution of long-tailed macaque populations. This research was conducted in August 2010 by covering areas within the region and outside the Kelimutu NP area. Data analysis was used to calculate the abundance index, the encounter rate for estimating abundance and distribution based on the length of the track surveyed. The results indicated that the distribution of long-tailed macaques populations in Kelimutu NP was most widely found in field habitats, with a relatively low abundance of around five individuals/km. Based on the calculation of habitat carrying capacity for groups of long-tailed macaque in the tourism zones, it is still below the maximum limit. The increased awareness of ecological insight tourism also needs to be optimized related to the presence of long-tailed macaque in the tourism zones of Kelimutu NP. Development of habitats, such as planting of trees for foods and protected zones is necessary to provide a suitable habitat for long-tailed macaque.

Secondary contact and genomic admixture between rhesus and long-tailed macaques in the Indochina Peninsula.

Understanding the process and consequences of hybridization is one of the major challenges in evolutionary biology. A growing body of literature has reported evidence of ancient hybridization events or natural hybrid zones in primates, including humans; however, we still have relatively limited knowledge about the pattern and history of admixture because there have been little studies that simultaneously achieved genome-scale analysis and a geographically wide sampling of wild populations. Our study applied double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing to samples from the six localities in and around the provisional hybrid zone of rhesus and long-tailed macaques and evaluated population structure, phylogenetic relationships, demographic history, and geographic clines of morphology and allele frequencies. A latitudinal gradient of genetic components was observed, highlighting the transition from rhesus (north) to long-tailed macaque distribution (south) as well as the presence of one northern population of long-tailed macaques exhibiting unique genetic structure. Interspecific gene flow was estimated to have recently occurred after an isolation period, and the migration rate from rhesus to long-tailed macaques was slightly greater than in the opposite direction. Although some rhesus macaque-biased alleles have widely introgressed into long-tailed macaque populations, the inflection points of allele frequencies have been observed as concentrated around the traditionally recognized interspecific boundary where morphology discontinuously changed; this pattern was more pronounced in the X chromosome than in autosomes. Thus, due to geographic separation before secondary contact, reproductive isolation could have evolved, contributing to the maintenance of an interspecific boundary and species-specific morphological characteristics.

Genetic diversity of Plasmodium knowlesi among human and long-tailed macaque populations in Peninsular Malaysia: The utility of microsatellite markers

It has been discovered that Plasmodium knowlesi (P. knowlesi) is transmitted from macaque to man. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine P. knowlesi genetic diversity in both human (n = 147) and long-tailed macaque (n = 26) samples from high- and low-endemicity localities. Genotyping was performed using seven neutral microsatellite loci markers. The size of the alleles, multiplicity of infection (MOI), mean number of alleles (Na), expected heterozygosity (HE), linkage disequilibrium (LD), and genetic differentiation (FST) were determined. In highly endemic P. knowlesi localities, the MOI for human and long-tailed macaque isolates was 1.04 and 1.15, respectively, while the Na was 11.14 and 7.86, respectively. Based on the allele frequency distribution for all loci, and with FST < 0.1, no genetic differentiation was seen between human and long-tailed macaque. In localities characterised by lower P. knowlesi endemicity, the MOI for human and long-tailed macaque isolates was 1.05 and 1.11, respectively, while the Na was 6.14 and 2.71, respectively. Further molecular analysis of the allele frequencies indicated that there was a significant genetic differentiation in human P. knowlesi isolates as compared to long-tailed macaque isolates, with a very low fixation index (FST = 0.016, p < .05) based on multiple loci analysis. Our results further indicate that, in Peninsular Malaysia, humans are mostly affected by P. knowlesi of a single genotype, while long-tailed macaque tend to acquire polyclonal infections, which supports the assumption that there is a higher rate of transmission among long-tailed macaque. Understanding the genetic diversity of P. knowlesi isolates can provide invaluable information for characterising patterns of the population structure and the migration rate of P. knowlesi in peninsular Malaysia.

KEPADATAN DAN STRUKTUR POPULASI MONYET EKOR PANJANG (Macaca fascicularis) DI KAWASAN HUTAN KOTA TELUK AKAR BERGANTUNG KETAPANG KALIMANTAN BARAT

Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) are one of the primates that are quite widespread in Indonesia, one of its in the area of Teluk Akar Bergantung city forest on Ketapang, West Kalimantan. This study aims to obtain data on the number of groups, number of individuals, population density, and structure of long-tailed macaque populations in the region using the line transects method and concentration count method. At the 95% confidence interval, the number of individuals ranged from -1,38 ind/ha to 30,20 ind/ha and the number of groups ranged from 0,72 groups/ha to 2,70 groups/ha. Population individual densities ranged from -0,39 ind/ha to 8,83 ind/ha and population group densities ranged from 0,21 groups/ha to 0,79 groups/ha. Structure of long-tailed macaque in the area of Teluk Akar Bergantung city forest on Ketapang, consists of 7,67 individuals of adult male, 9 individuals of adult female, 23,67 individuals of adolescent and 1,33 individual of children. Factors that affect the stability of long-tailed macaque populations include environmental conditions, types of feed, movement, interaction with other animals and the presence of predators.Keywords: Long-tailed macaque, population density, population structure, Teluk Akar Bergantung city forest.

Fecal microbiota dysbiosis in macaques and humans within a shared environment.

Traditional zoonotic disease research focuses on detection of recognized pathogens and may miss opportunities to understand broader microbial transmission dynamics between humans, animals, and the environment. We studied human-macaque microbiome overlap in Kosum Phisai District, Maha Sarakham Province, Thailand, where a growing population of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in Kosumpee Forest Park interact with humans from an adjacent village. We surveyed workers in or near the park with elevated exposure to macaques to characterize tasks resulting in exposure to macaque feces in addition to dietary and lifestyle factors that influence gut microbiome composition. Fecal samples were collected from 12 exposed workers and 6 controls without macaque exposure, as well as 8 macaques from Kosumpee Forest Park and 4 from an isolated forest patch with minimal human contact. The V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene from fecal sample extracted DNA was amplified and sequenced using Illumina MiSeq to characterize the microbial community. A permuted betadisper test on the weighted UniFrac distances revealed significant differences in the dispersion patterns of gut microbiota from exposed and control macaques (p = 0.03). The high variance in gut microbiota composition of macaques in contact with humans has potential implications for gut microbiome stability and susceptibility to disease, described by the Anna Karenina principle (AKP). Human samples had homogenous variance in beta diversity but different spatial medians between groups (p = 0.02), indicating a shift in microbial composition that may be explained by fundamental lifestyle differences between the groups unrelated to exposure status. SourceTracker was used to estimate the percent of gut taxa in exposed humans that was contributed by macaques. While one worker showed evidence of elevated contribution, the overall trend was not significant. Task observations among workers revealed opportunities to employ protective measures or training to reduce exposure to occupational hazards. These results suggest the potential for hygiene measures to mitigate negative aspects of contact between humans and macaques in order to optimize the health of both populations.

Long-Tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in Urban Landscapes: Gastrointestinal Parasitism and Barriers for Healthy Coexistence in Northeast Thailand.

Gastrointestinal parasites have diverse life cycles that can involve people, animals, and the environment (e.g., water and soil), demonstrating the utility of One Health frameworks in characterizing infection risk. Kosumpee Forest Park (Thailand) is home to a dense population of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) that frequently interact with tourists and local residents. Our study investigated the presence of zoonotic parasites, and barriers to healthy coexistence by conducting stool analysis on macaques (N = 102) and people (N = 115), and by examining risk factors for infection with a household questionnaire (N = 95). Overall, 44% of macaques and 12% of people were infected with one or more gastrointestinal helminths, including Strongyloides spp., Ascaris spp., and Trichuris sp. An adults-only generalized linear mixed model identified three factors significantly associated with human infection: household size, occupational exposure, and contact with macaque feces at home. Participants identified both advantages and disadvantages to living in close contact with macaques, suggesting that interventions to improve human and animal health in Kosumpee Forest Park would be welcome.

POPULASI DAN PERILAKU KERA EKOR PANJANG (Macaca fascicularis) DI DESA PANCASARI SUKASADA BULELENG BALI

ABSTRACT&#x0D; Long-tailed macaque (Macacafascicularis) has its name as the length of its tail as long as its body. One of their habitats is located in Pancasari Village, Sukasada, Buleleng, Bali. Its current number and their daily activity has not been scientifically studied. This research, aimed to determine the number of individuals in its age groups, and the in daily activity as. The population was calculateemploying census methodand was distinguish accordingly to different age group (a) adult, (b) juveniles and (d) infant, ceusused three times that inthe morning at 09.00-10.00, during the day at 11.00-12.00and in the afternoon at 13.00-14.00. Daily activities of this macaque were recorded withanimal focal scan sampling method, twice in a day, in the morning at 09.00-11.00 and in the afternoon at 14.00-16.00 for 7 days. The population of long-tailed macaques in this are is 252, consisting of 96 adult male, 85 adult females, 44 juveniles and 27 infants. The long tail macaques at Pancasariuse most of their time for moving (30%), followed by eating (27%)and resting (22%). Only 2% of their daily time was used for aggressive and mating.&#x0D; Keywords: Macaca fascicularis, population, daily activities

Intergroup variation in robbing and bartering by long-tailed macaques at Uluwatu Temple (Bali, Indonesia).

Robbing and bartering (RB) is a behavioral practice anecdotally reported in free-ranging commensal macaques. It usually occurs in two steps: after taking inedible objects (e.g., glasses) from humans, the macaques appear to use them as tokens, returning them to humans in exchange for food. While extensively studied in captivity, our research is the first to investigate the object/food exchange between humans and primates in a natural setting. During a 4-month study in 2010, we used both focal and event sampling to record 201 RB events in a population of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), including four neighboring groups ranging freely around Uluwatu Temple, Bali (Indonesia). In each group, we documented the RB frequency, prevalence and outcome, and tested the underpinning anthropogenic and demographic determinants. In line with the environmental opportunity hypothesis, we found a positive qualitative relation at the group level between time spent in tourist zones and RB frequency or prevalence. For two of the four groups, RB events were significantly more frequent when humans were more present in the environment. We also found qualitative partial support for the male-biased sex ratio hypothesis [i.e., RB was more frequent and prevalent in groups with higher ratios of (sub)adult males], whereas the group density hypothesis was not supported. This preliminary study showed that RB is a spontaneous, customary (in some groups), and enduring population-specific practice characterized by intergroup variation in Balinese macaques. As such, RB is a candidate for a new behavioral tradition in this species.

Distribution and prevalence of malaria parasites among long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in regional populations across Southeast Asia.

BackgroundPlasmodium knowlesi and Plasmodium cynomolgi are two malaria parasites naturally transmissible between humans and wild macaque through mosquito vectors, while Plasmodium inui can be experimentally transmitted from macaques to humans. One of their major natural hosts, the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis), is host to two other species of Plasmodium (Plasmodium fieldi and Plasmodium coatneyi) and is widely distributed in Southeast Asia. This study aims to determine the distribution of wild macaques infected with malarial parasites by examining samples derived from seven populations in five countries across Southeast Asia.MethodsPlasmodium knowlesi, P. cynomolgi, P. coatneyi, P. inui and P. fieldi, were detected using nested PCR assays in DNA samples from 276 wild-caught long-tailed macaques. These samples had been derived from macaques captured at seven locations, two each in the Philippines (n = 68) and Indonesia (n = 70), and one each in Cambodia (n = 54), Singapore (n = 40) and Laos (n = 44). The results were compared with previous studies of malaria parasites in long-tailed macaques from other locations in Southeast Asia. Fisher exact test and Chi square test were used to examine the geographic bias of the distribution of Plasmodium species in the macaque populations.ResultsOut of 276 samples tested, 177 were Plasmodium-positive, with P. cynomolgi being the most common and widely distributed among all long-tailed macaque populations (53.3 %) and occurring in all populations examined, followed by P. coatneyi (20.4 %), P. inui (12.3 %), P. fieldi (3.4 %) and P. knowlesi (0.4 %). One P. knowlesi infection was detected in a macaque from Laos, representing the first documented case of P. knowlesi in wildlife in Laos. Chi square test showed three of the five parasites (P. knowlesi, P. coatneyi, P. cynomolgi) with significant bias in prevalence towards macaques from Malaysian Borneo, Cambodia, and Southern Sumatra, respectively.ConclusionsThe prevalence of malaria parasites, including those that are transmissible to humans, varied among all sampled regional populations of long-tailed macaques in Southeast Asia. The new discovery of P. knowlesi infection in Laos, and the high prevalence of P. cynomolgi infections in wild macaques in general, indicate the strong need of public advocacy in related countries.