Growth hormone gene (GH) ofRhinopithecus roxellanae was amplified by PCR based on the sequences of the reported mammalian growth hormone gene for the first time. The amplified fragment was about 1.8 kb. It was cloned ...Growth hormone gene (GH) ofRhinopithecus roxellanae was amplified by PCR based on the sequences of the reported mammalian growth hormone gene for the first time. The amplified fragment was about 1.8 kb. It was cloned and its upper stream was sequenced. This sequencing region consists of a 5′flanking regulatory region, exon I and part of exon II, intron I of growth hormone gene. Comparing the corresponding sequences of growth hormone gene betweenRhinopithecus roxellanae and the porcine, we concluded that the homology reached 81% in the region, and there was high conservation in the 5′flanking sequence. The kinds of amino acids of exon I and exon II for about 90% were the same to those in pig. Many mutations occurred in the degenerate site of the triplet code. In the nucleotides of intron I, there were only 72% homologies with those in pig. It means that introns and 3′flanking sequence maybe play an important part in growth hormone gene regulation of the different animals.展开更多
The dynamics of animal social structures are heavily influenced by environmental patterns of competition and cooperation.In folivorous colobine primates,prevailing theories suggest that larger group sizes should be fa...The dynamics of animal social structures are heavily influenced by environmental patterns of competition and cooperation.In folivorous colobine primates,prevailing theories suggest that larger group sizes should be favored in rainforests with a year-round abundance of food,thereby reducing feeding competition.Yet,paradoxically,larger groups are frequently found in high-altitude or high-latitude montane ecosystems characterized by a seasonal scarcity of leaves.This contradiction is posited to arise from cooperative benefits in heterogeneous environments.To investigate this hypothesis,we carried out a six-year field study on two neighboring groups of golden snub-nosed monkey(Rhinopithecus roxellana),a species representing the northernmost distribution of colobine primates.Results showed that the groups adjusted their movement and habitat selection in response to fluctuating climates and spatiotemporal variability of resources,indicative of a dynamic foraging strategy.Notably,during the cold,resource-scarce conditions in winter,the large group occupied food-rich habitats but did not exhibit significantly longer daily travel distances than the smaller neighboring group.Subsequently,we compiled an eco-behavioral dataset of 52 colobine species to explore their evolutionary trajectories.Analysis of this dataset suggested that the increase in group size may have evolved via home range expansion in response to the cold and heterogeneous climates found at higher altitudes or latitudes.Hence,we developed a multi-benefits framework to interpret the formation of larger groups by integrating environmental heterogeneity.In cold and diverse environments,even smaller groups require larger home ranges to meet their dynamic survival needs.The spatiotemporal distribution of high-quality resources within these expanded home ranges facilitates more frequent interactions between groups,thereby encouraging social aggregation into larger groups.This process enhances the benefits of collaborative actions and reproductive opportunities,while simultaneously optimizing travel costs through a dynamic foraging strategy.展开更多
For group-living primates, the information on postconflict management is crucial for understanding primate competition and cooperation. However, such information is poorly known for snub-nosed monkeys, especially for ...For group-living primates, the information on postconflict management is crucial for understanding primate competition and cooperation. However, such information is poorly known for snub-nosed monkeys, especially for wild populations. In this study, from September 2007 to June 2008, we investigated postconflict behavior among adult females Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana within one-male units in a wild, provisioned group in the Qinling Mountains of China by means of the time-rule method and the PC-MC method. We obtained a total of 81 PC-MC pairs and each individual was involved in only 0.004 aggressive behavior per observation hour. The first affiliative behavior was more likely to occur within the first minute after a conflict. The postconflict affiliative behaviors most often seen were contact-sit, embrace and grooming. The affiliative contacts between adult females occur due to selective attraction, i.e. reconciliation. The pattern of postconflict affiliation demonstrates that the R. roxellana belongs to a tolerant species.展开更多
In primate species with social systems consisting of one-male breeding units （OMUs）, resident male takeover represents a major challenge to individual reproductive success and mating strategies. The golden snub-nose...In primate species with social systems consisting of one-male breeding units （OMUs）, resident male takeover represents a major challenge to individual reproductive success and mating strategies. The golden snub-nosed monkey （Rhinopithecus roxellana） is characterized by large multilevel societies （MLS） comprised of several OMUs and all-male units （AMUs）; however, the factors and mechanisms associated with resident male takeover, which offer important insight into primate reproduction and social strategies, are still poorly understood. Based on 5-year monitoring data from a free-ranging herd of golden monkeys from the Qinling Mountains in China, we categorized three phases of an OMU, that is, a rising phase, developing phase, and declining phase. The rising and declining phases were unstable periods in which male takeover in an OMU might occur. Factors causing takeover, such as leader male rank, fighting ability, reproduction rate, and affiliation （proximity, allogrooming）, were analyzed for males and females and for different OMUs. Results indicated that the new resident male＇s fighting ability was lower than that of the former resident male in 23 cases. After replacement, the rank order of the new resident male significantly declined. Females involved in a takeover increased their distance from the resident male and decreased mating frequency during the three months prior to takeover. Females with infants under one-year-old had a marked effect on the specific time of takeover occurrence. These results suggested that female choice was the main factor deciding whether a takeover attempt was successful. Furthermore, rather than male conflict, females more often initiated and affected takeover and outcome, implying that the social status and competitive ability of the males played lesser roles during takeover.展开更多
We examined time allocation by Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana in the montane, temperate and highly seasonal forests of the Shennongjia Nature Reserve in China, in order to improve our understanding...We examined time allocation by Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana in the montane, temperate and highly seasonal forests of the Shennongjia Nature Reserve in China, in order to improve our understanding of the ecological and social influences on monkey behavior. We collected data on activity budgets in relation to food availability in a group of monkeys from July 2003 to September 2004 （except February 2004）, using instantaneous scan samples. The monkeys spent 36.21% of daytime moving （ n = 21, 269 records）, 24.39% foraging, 9.33% inactive, 11,7% performing social behaviors, and 18.38% performing other behaviors. There were seasonal and annual variations in the proportions of time devoted to some activities. These variations were largely attributed to seasonal or annual fluctuations in the distribution and quality of food resources. Adult males spent more time moving, searching, and displaying other behaviors, but less time feeding and performing social behaviors than adult females. Adults performed other behaviors more often and moving less often than juveniles. These differences in activity budgets may reflect fundamental differences in reproductive biology, parental investment, and development among the different age/sex classes [ Current Zoology 55 （3） ： 173 - 179, 2009] .展开更多
Small and isolated populations face several intrinsic risks,such as genetic drift,inbreeding depression,and reduced gene fow.Thus,patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation have become an important focus of con...Small and isolated populations face several intrinsic risks,such as genetic drift,inbreeding depression,and reduced gene fow.Thus,patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation have become an important focus of conservation genetics research.The golden snub-nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana,an endangered species endemic to China,has experienced rapid reduction in population size and severe population fragmentation over the past few decades.We measured the patterns of genetic diversity and population differentiation using both neutral microsatellites and adaptive major histocompatibility complex(MHC)genes in 2 R.roxellana populations(DPY and GNG)distributed on the northern and southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains,respectively.Eight MHC-linked haplotypes formed by 5 DQA1 alleles,5 DQB1 alleles,5 DRB1 alleles,and 4 DRB2 alleles were detected in the 2 populations.The larger GNG population showed higher genetic variation for both MHC and microsatellites than the smaller DPY population,suggesting an effect of genetic drift on genetic variation.Genetic differentiation index(FST)outlier analyses,principal coordinate analysis(PCoA),and inferred population genetic structure showed lower genetic differentiation in the MHC variations than microsatellites,suggesting that pathogen-mediated balancing selection,rather than local adaptation,homogenized the MHC genes of both populations.This study indicates that both balancing selection and genetic drift may shape genetic variation and differentiation in small and fragmented populations.展开更多
Since reconciliation was first described more than 20 years ago, a large number of postconflict be- haviors have been observed among females in many polygynous primate species. However, few studies have been conducted...Since reconciliation was first described more than 20 years ago, a large number of postconflict be- haviors have been observed among females in many polygynous primate species. However, few studies have been conducted among males, perhaps due to the rarity with which they maintain friendly relationships with one another and their aggressive competition for resources. Although this is true for many primate males, Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana represent a potential exception as male cooperation has been known to occur. In this study, using postconfiict/ matched-control（PC-MC） and time-rule methods, we analyzed postconflict behavior among males and the possible occurrence of bystander affiliation or reconciliation. A total of 246 PC-MC pairs among leader males were obtained. On average, each leader male exhibited only 0.04 aggressive be- haviors per observation hour, and conciliation among leader males occurred at a low rate （2.03%） relative to other primate species. The occurrence of consolation-affiliation interactions between focal males and group members other than former opponents differed significantly between PCs and MCs, which is the first time this has been confirmed among R. roxellana males. We discuss the results in light of recent theories concerning consolation in primates. The patterns of postconflict contact demonstrated that R. roxellana may be a unique species among colobines.展开更多
Group living provides various advantages to individuals in regards to protection avoidance,intergroup competition,productive success and social information.Stable one-male units(OMUs)consist of relationships between t...Group living provides various advantages to individuals in regards to protection avoidance,intergroup competition,productive success and social information.Stable one-male units(OMUs)consist of relationships between the adult females and the resident male as well as the relationships among adult females.Based on continuous observation of a reproductive group of golden snub-nosed monkeys(Rhinopithecus roxellana)in the Qinling Mountains,we analyzed the relationships among adult individual dyads within 4 OMUs.The results indicated that in golden snub-nosed monkey societies,females not only had no strong tendency to build a relationship with the resident male in the OMU but also had no strong tendency to build relationships with other females in the OMU.In comparison with hamadryas(Papio hamadryas)and gelada baboons(Theropithecus gelada),the relationships within golden snub-nosed monkeys OMUs showed neither the star-shaped pattern observed in hamadryas baboons nor the net-shaped pattern observed in gelada baboons.We concluded that the relationships within golden snub-nosed monkey OMUs indicated a third pattern in nonhuman primate societies.Future research is required to determine the potential mechanisms for such a pattern.展开更多
We studied the responsiveness of the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana, an arboreal Old World monkey, to the presence of novel stimuli associated with familiar food. We also determined differences in r...We studied the responsiveness of the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana, an arboreal Old World monkey, to the presence of novel stimuli associated with familiar food. We also determined differences in responses by age and sex. Results showed that monkeys exhibited neophilia and neophobia simultaneously when facing novel stimuli. Age affected the response to novel stimuli significantly, with immature individuals responding to novel stimuli most frequently and infants least frequently. No significant differences were observed for sex, although females were more responsive to the novel object than were males. Our results support the ＂readiness to eat＂ hypothesis that the presence of a novel object can increase latencies to consume familiar food .展开更多
Although there are some reports that have described primates eating animals,it is unknown whether predation on vertebrates exists in herbivorous leaf-eating primates.We have witnessed firsthand wild Sichuan snub-nosed...Although there are some reports that have described primates eating animals,it is unknown whether predation on vertebrates exists in herbivorous leaf-eating primates.We have witnessed firsthand wild Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys(Rhinopithecus roxellana)preying on and consuming Eurasian blackbirds(Turdus merula)in the Qinling Mountains of China.This event suggests that R.roxellana,which has previously been described as a herbivorous leaf-eating primate,may be partially carnivorous and the correct classification of this species would be omnivorous.Furthermore,food-share behavior among higher-ranked members occurs in a one-male unit when vertebrate prey is hunted by this species.展开更多
The highly polymorphic genes within the major histocompatibility complex(MHC)not only play a major role in immunity resistance,but also seem to provide hints for mate choice in some animal populations.In the pres...The highly polymorphic genes within the major histocompatibility complex(MHC)not only play a major role in immunity resistance,but also seem to provide hints for mate choice in some animal populations.In the present study we investigated MHC-related mate choice in a small natural population(group size 40-55 individuals)of a polygynous primate,the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey(Rhinopithecus roxellana).We found that there was no evidence either for MHC-disassortative mating,or for females to mate with males based on MHC heterozygosity or specific alleles.Nevertheless,of the 11 alleles identified,we found that the frequencies of 2 alleles,Rhro-DRB2(P<0.01)and Rhro-DRB5(P<0.05)were higher in offspring than in their parents.These findings suggest that MHC-DRB in this population of R.roxellana is unlikely to be associated with mating preferences.Limited female opportunities for mate choice are likely due,in part,to the harem breeding structure present in R.roxellana,and the relatively small number of resident adult males in our study band(N=4-6).In addition,we suggest that differences in the frequency of particular alleles across generations may be linked to parasite resistance in a fluctuating environment;however,confirmation of this finding requires further study.展开更多
Both natural conditions and anthropogenic factors affect the survivability,distribution,and population density of wildlife.To understand the extent and how these factors drive species distributions,a detailed descript...Both natural conditions and anthropogenic factors affect the survivability,distribution,and population density of wildlife.To understand the extent and how these factors drive species distributions,a detailed description of animal movement patterns in natural habitats is needed.In this study,we used satellite telemetry to monitor elevational ranges favored by endangered golden snub-nosed monkeys(Rhinopithecus roxellana),in the Qinling Mountains,central China.We investigated the abundance and distribution of food resources through sampling vegetation quadrats at different elevations and sampled anthropogenic activities using field surveys.Our results indicated that although there was no significant variation in food resources between low-(<1500 m)and middle-elevations(1500–2200 m),monkeys were found most often in areas above 1500 m,where there was less anthropogenic development(e.g.houses and roads);however,monkeys rarely ranged above 2200 m and had limited food availability at this altitude.There was limited human disturbance at this elevation.We suggest that both human activity and ecological constraints(i.e.food resources)have considerable effects on elevational use of R.roxellana in the Qinling Mountains.This study highlights the critical roles these factors can play in shaping the vertical distribution of high-altitude primates.This research provides useful insights for habitat-based conservation plans in which human disturbance management and habitat restoration should be prioritized.展开更多
For socialized animals,such as prinlates,emotions arc the expression of internal states,which may be recognized by others to adjust an in dividual's potential actions(Girard and Bellone 2020).Facial expressions ar...For socialized animals,such as prinlates,emotions arc the expression of internal states,which may be recognized by others to adjust an in dividual's potential actions(Girard and Bellone 2020).Facial expressions are therefore important signals in communication(e.g.,happy or in pain)and can help individuals understand potential meanings between each other(Dolensek et al.2020).Facial expressions can be expressed and processed freely and are useful in social interactions and bonding(Waller et al.2016).展开更多
Age is a key factor affecting sexual selection,as many physical and social traits are age-related.Although studies of primate mate choice often consider particular age-related traits,few consider the collective effect...Age is a key factor affecting sexual selection,as many physical and social traits are age-related.Although studies of primate mate choice often consider particular age-related traits,few consider the collective effects of male age.We tested the hypothesis that female golden snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana prefer prime aged males(10-15 years)over younger and older males.We examined a habituated,provisioned troop during a 3-year study in the Qinling Mountains,China.Prime age males were more likely to be resident males of 1-male units(OMUs)than males of other ages.Since females are free to transfer between OMUs,the number of females per OMU can be indicative of female preferences.We examined the number of females per OMU,and found that it increased with resident male age up to 7-8 years,and declined after 12 years,such that prime age resident males had more females than other resident males.Females also initiated extra-unit copulations with high-ranking prime age males at significantly higher rates than with other males.Nevertheless,females tended to transfer from OMUs with high-ranking,older resident males to those with low-ranking,younger resident males.Thus,females appear to use different strategies when choosing social mates and extra-unit mates(i.e.,different social contexts).We speculate that females may perceive early signs of aging in males and trade off the benefits and costs of high rank versus male senescence.This study lays the groundwork for future studies that examine possible direct and indirect benefits of such strategies.展开更多
Inter-group conflicts are common among many group-living animals and involve potentially complex motivations and interactions.Mammals living in multilevel societies offer a good opportunity to study inter-group confli...Inter-group conflicts are common among many group-living animals and involve potentially complex motivations and interactions.Mammals living in multilevel societies offer a good opportunity to study inter-group conflicts.This study is the first to explore the function of sex-specific participation during inter-group conflicts within a multilevel society at the individual level.The Sichuan snub-nosed monkey(Rhinopithecus roxellana)is an endangered seasonal breeding species living in a multilevel society.From Sep 2007 to May 2008 we recorded 290 inter-group conflicts of a free-ranging provisioned band of R.roxellana in the Qinling Mountains of China to investigate the function of individual aggression during inter-group encounters.Our findings show that adult males were the main participants in inter-group conflicts,while females took part in them only occasionally.The male participation rate during the mating season,when adult females were estrous,was significantly higher than that during the non-mating season.Furthermore,males directed their aggression to other males,and directed more intense aggression towards bachelor males than towards other resident males.For both sexes,the participation rate as initiators was higher in the winter than that in the spring;and there was a significant positive correlation between group size and the participation rate as initiators.Our results suggest that inter-group aggression in Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys is linked to both mate defense and resource defense.展开更多
文摘Growth hormone gene (GH) ofRhinopithecus roxellanae was amplified by PCR based on the sequences of the reported mammalian growth hormone gene for the first time. The amplified fragment was about 1.8 kb. It was cloned and its upper stream was sequenced. This sequencing region consists of a 5′flanking regulatory region, exon I and part of exon II, intron I of growth hormone gene. Comparing the corresponding sequences of growth hormone gene betweenRhinopithecus roxellanae and the porcine, we concluded that the homology reached 81% in the region, and there was high conservation in the 5′flanking sequence. The kinds of amino acids of exon I and exon II for about 90% were the same to those in pig. Many mutations occurred in the degenerate site of the triplet code. In the nucleotides of intron I, there were only 72% homologies with those in pig. It means that introns and 3′flanking sequence maybe play an important part in growth hormone gene regulation of the different animals.
基金supported by the Biodiversity Survey and Assessment Project of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment,China(2019HJ2096001006)National Natural Science Foundation of China(32001099,32170512,32370524)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2020M683539)。
文摘The dynamics of animal social structures are heavily influenced by environmental patterns of competition and cooperation.In folivorous colobine primates,prevailing theories suggest that larger group sizes should be favored in rainforests with a year-round abundance of food,thereby reducing feeding competition.Yet,paradoxically,larger groups are frequently found in high-altitude or high-latitude montane ecosystems characterized by a seasonal scarcity of leaves.This contradiction is posited to arise from cooperative benefits in heterogeneous environments.To investigate this hypothesis,we carried out a six-year field study on two neighboring groups of golden snub-nosed monkey(Rhinopithecus roxellana),a species representing the northernmost distribution of colobine primates.Results showed that the groups adjusted their movement and habitat selection in response to fluctuating climates and spatiotemporal variability of resources,indicative of a dynamic foraging strategy.Notably,during the cold,resource-scarce conditions in winter,the large group occupied food-rich habitats but did not exhibit significantly longer daily travel distances than the smaller neighboring group.Subsequently,we compiled an eco-behavioral dataset of 52 colobine species to explore their evolutionary trajectories.Analysis of this dataset suggested that the increase in group size may have evolved via home range expansion in response to the cold and heterogeneous climates found at higher altitudes or latitudes.Hence,we developed a multi-benefits framework to interpret the formation of larger groups by integrating environmental heterogeneity.In cold and diverse environments,even smaller groups require larger home ranges to meet their dynamic survival needs.The spatiotemporal distribution of high-quality resources within these expanded home ranges facilitates more frequent interactions between groups,thereby encouraging social aggregation into larger groups.This process enhances the benefits of collaborative actions and reproductive opportunities,while simultaneously optimizing travel costs through a dynamic foraging strategy.
基金The Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30970444, No. 30770375, No. 30630016)the Cosmo Oil Eco Card Fund of Japan (2005-2010) support
文摘For group-living primates, the information on postconflict management is crucial for understanding primate competition and cooperation. However, such information is poorly known for snub-nosed monkeys, especially for wild populations. In this study, from September 2007 to June 2008, we investigated postconflict behavior among adult females Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana within one-male units in a wild, provisioned group in the Qinling Mountains of China by means of the time-rule method and the PC-MC method. We obtained a total of 81 PC-MC pairs and each individual was involved in only 0.004 aggressive behavior per observation hour. The first affiliative behavior was more likely to occur within the first minute after a conflict. The postconflict affiliative behaviors most often seen were contact-sit, embrace and grooming. The affiliative contacts between adult females occur due to selective attraction, i.e. reconciliation. The pattern of postconflict affiliation demonstrates that the R. roxellana belongs to a tolerant species.
基金funded by the National Science Foundation of China(31470455,31622053,31730104)National Key Program of Research and Development,Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2016YFC0503200)Northwest University Graduate Innovation and Creativity Funds(YZZ17156)
文摘In primate species with social systems consisting of one-male breeding units （OMUs）, resident male takeover represents a major challenge to individual reproductive success and mating strategies. The golden snub-nosed monkey （Rhinopithecus roxellana） is characterized by large multilevel societies （MLS） comprised of several OMUs and all-male units （AMUs）; however, the factors and mechanisms associated with resident male takeover, which offer important insight into primate reproduction and social strategies, are still poorly understood. Based on 5-year monitoring data from a free-ranging herd of golden monkeys from the Qinling Mountains in China, we categorized three phases of an OMU, that is, a rising phase, developing phase, and declining phase. The rising and declining phases were unstable periods in which male takeover in an OMU might occur. Factors causing takeover, such as leader male rank, fighting ability, reproduction rate, and affiliation （proximity, allogrooming）, were analyzed for males and females and for different OMUs. Results indicated that the new resident male＇s fighting ability was lower than that of the former resident male in 23 cases. After replacement, the rank order of the new resident male significantly declined. Females involved in a takeover increased their distance from the resident male and decreased mating frequency during the three months prior to takeover. Females with infants under one-year-old had a marked effect on the specific time of takeover occurrence. These results suggested that female choice was the main factor deciding whether a takeover attempt was successful. Furthermore, rather than male conflict, females more often initiated and affected takeover and outcome, implying that the social status and competitive ability of the males played lesser roles during takeover.
基金supported by grants from the"973"program(code:2007CB411600)the National Science Foundation(code:30670354)
文摘We examined time allocation by Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana in the montane, temperate and highly seasonal forests of the Shennongjia Nature Reserve in China, in order to improve our understanding of the ecological and social influences on monkey behavior. We collected data on activity budgets in relation to food availability in a group of monkeys from July 2003 to September 2004 （except February 2004）, using instantaneous scan samples. The monkeys spent 36.21% of daytime moving （ n = 21, 269 records）, 24.39% foraging, 9.33% inactive, 11,7% performing social behaviors, and 18.38% performing other behaviors. There were seasonal and annual variations in the proportions of time devoted to some activities. These variations were largely attributed to seasonal or annual fluctuations in the distribution and quality of food resources. Adult males spent more time moving, searching, and displaying other behaviors, but less time feeding and performing social behaviors than adult females. Adults performed other behaviors more often and moving less often than juveniles. These differences in activity budgets may reflect fundamental differences in reproductive biology, parental investment, and development among the different age/sex classes [ Current Zoology 55 （3） ： 173 - 179, 2009] .
基金funded by the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB31020302)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31730104,31770425,32071495,32170515,32070453,and 32000317)Derek W.Dunn was supported by a Shaanxi Province Talents 100 Fellowships.
文摘Small and isolated populations face several intrinsic risks,such as genetic drift,inbreeding depression,and reduced gene fow.Thus,patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation have become an important focus of conservation genetics research.The golden snub-nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana,an endangered species endemic to China,has experienced rapid reduction in population size and severe population fragmentation over the past few decades.We measured the patterns of genetic diversity and population differentiation using both neutral microsatellites and adaptive major histocompatibility complex(MHC)genes in 2 R.roxellana populations(DPY and GNG)distributed on the northern and southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains,respectively.Eight MHC-linked haplotypes formed by 5 DQA1 alleles,5 DQB1 alleles,5 DRB1 alleles,and 4 DRB2 alleles were detected in the 2 populations.The larger GNG population showed higher genetic variation for both MHC and microsatellites than the smaller DPY population,suggesting an effect of genetic drift on genetic variation.Genetic differentiation index(FST)outlier analyses,principal coordinate analysis(PCoA),and inferred population genetic structure showed lower genetic differentiation in the MHC variations than microsatellites,suggesting that pathogen-mediated balancing selection,rather than local adaptation,homogenized the MHC genes of both populations.This study indicates that both balancing selection and genetic drift may shape genetic variation and differentiation in small and fragmented populations.
文摘Since reconciliation was first described more than 20 years ago, a large number of postconflict be- haviors have been observed among females in many polygynous primate species. However, few studies have been conducted among males, perhaps due to the rarity with which they maintain friendly relationships with one another and their aggressive competition for resources. Although this is true for many primate males, Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana represent a potential exception as male cooperation has been known to occur. In this study, using postconfiict/ matched-control（PC-MC） and time-rule methods, we analyzed postconflict behavior among males and the possible occurrence of bystander affiliation or reconciliation. A total of 246 PC-MC pairs among leader males were obtained. On average, each leader male exhibited only 0.04 aggressive be- haviors per observation hour, and conciliation among leader males occurred at a low rate （2.03%） relative to other primate species. The occurrence of consolation-affiliation interactions between focal males and group members other than former opponents differed significantly between PCs and MCs, which is the first time this has been confirmed among R. roxellana males. We discuss the results in light of recent theories concerning consolation in primates. The patterns of postconflict contact demonstrated that R. roxellana may be a unique species among colobines.
基金funded by grants from the Key Program of National Natural Science Fund(31130061)the Special Foundation of Shaanxi Academy of Sciences,China(2012K-01)+4 种基金the Youth Foundation of Shaanxi Academy of Sciences,China(2013K-35)the Western Light Talent Culture Project(2011DF05)the National Nature Science Foundation of China(30970444,30970168,30970379)the Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China(20106101110005)the Cosmo Oil Eco Card Fund of Japan(2005–2012).
文摘Group living provides various advantages to individuals in regards to protection avoidance,intergroup competition,productive success and social information.Stable one-male units(OMUs)consist of relationships between the adult females and the resident male as well as the relationships among adult females.Based on continuous observation of a reproductive group of golden snub-nosed monkeys(Rhinopithecus roxellana)in the Qinling Mountains,we analyzed the relationships among adult individual dyads within 4 OMUs.The results indicated that in golden snub-nosed monkey societies,females not only had no strong tendency to build a relationship with the resident male in the OMU but also had no strong tendency to build relationships with other females in the OMU.In comparison with hamadryas(Papio hamadryas)and gelada baboons(Theropithecus gelada),the relationships within golden snub-nosed monkeys OMUs showed neither the star-shaped pattern observed in hamadryas baboons nor the net-shaped pattern observed in gelada baboons.We concluded that the relationships within golden snub-nosed monkey OMUs indicated a third pattern in nonhuman primate societies.Future research is required to determine the potential mechanisms for such a pattern.
基金We are grateful to the Director and staff of Zhouzhi National Nature Reserve for their permission to conduct this research. We appreciate Gou ST, Zhang P, Zhu WW, Ren Y, Zhang D, Huang K, Zhang HY, Wu LL, Wang XW, Zhao HT, and Wang CL for their help during the study. This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No.31130061, No30970444., No.31200293）, the Talent Introduction Fund of Tianjin Nor- mal University （No.5RLII5）, and the Cosmo Oil Eco Card Fund of Japan （2005-2012）.
文摘We studied the responsiveness of the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana, an arboreal Old World monkey, to the presence of novel stimuli associated with familiar food. We also determined differences in responses by age and sex. Results showed that monkeys exhibited neophilia and neophobia simultaneously when facing novel stimuli. Age affected the response to novel stimuli significantly, with immature individuals responding to novel stimuli most frequently and infants least frequently. No significant differences were observed for sex, although females were more responsive to the novel object than were males. Our results support the ＂readiness to eat＂ hypothesis that the presence of a novel object can increase latencies to consume familiar food .
基金on-going operating grants from the Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30770375,No.30570312 and No.30630016)the Cosmo Oil Eco Card Fund of Japan(2005–2010).
文摘Although there are some reports that have described primates eating animals,it is unknown whether predation on vertebrates exists in herbivorous leaf-eating primates.We have witnessed firsthand wild Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys(Rhinopithecus roxellana)preying on and consuming Eurasian blackbirds(Turdus merula)in the Qinling Mountains of China.This event suggests that R.roxellana,which has previously been described as a herbivorous leaf-eating primate,may be partially carnivorous and the correct classification of this species would be omnivorous.Furthermore,food-share behavior among higher-ranked members occurs in a one-male unit when vertebrate prey is hunted by this species.
基金This project was supported by the Project of Public Benefit(No.201104073)the Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30970427,31130061)the National Key Technology R&D Program of China(2013BAD03B02).
文摘The highly polymorphic genes within the major histocompatibility complex(MHC)not only play a major role in immunity resistance,but also seem to provide hints for mate choice in some animal populations.In the present study we investigated MHC-related mate choice in a small natural population(group size 40-55 individuals)of a polygynous primate,the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey(Rhinopithecus roxellana).We found that there was no evidence either for MHC-disassortative mating,or for females to mate with males based on MHC heterozygosity or specific alleles.Nevertheless,of the 11 alleles identified,we found that the frequencies of 2 alleles,Rhro-DRB2(P<0.01)and Rhro-DRB5(P<0.05)were higher in offspring than in their parents.These findings suggest that MHC-DRB in this population of R.roxellana is unlikely to be associated with mating preferences.Limited female opportunities for mate choice are likely due,in part,to the harem breeding structure present in R.roxellana,and the relatively small number of resident adult males in our study band(N=4-6).In addition,we suggest that differences in the frequency of particular alleles across generations may be linked to parasite resistance in a fluctuating environment;however,confirmation of this finding requires further study.
基金This study was supported by Promotional project for Innovation team,the Department of Science and Technology of Shaanxi Prov.China(2018TD-017)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31622053,31730104,31901083)+3 种基金the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2019M663796)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB31020302)This research was conducted with approval from the animal care committee of the Wildlife Protection Society of China(SL-2012-42)the specialist committee of the National Forestry Administration of China(SFALHXZ-2012-2788).
文摘Both natural conditions and anthropogenic factors affect the survivability,distribution,and population density of wildlife.To understand the extent and how these factors drive species distributions,a detailed description of animal movement patterns in natural habitats is needed.In this study,we used satellite telemetry to monitor elevational ranges favored by endangered golden snub-nosed monkeys(Rhinopithecus roxellana),in the Qinling Mountains,central China.We investigated the abundance and distribution of food resources through sampling vegetation quadrats at different elevations and sampled anthropogenic activities using field surveys.Our results indicated that although there was no significant variation in food resources between low-(<1500 m)and middle-elevations(1500–2200 m),monkeys were found most often in areas above 1500 m,where there was less anthropogenic development(e.g.houses and roads);however,monkeys rarely ranged above 2200 m and had limited food availability at this altitude.There was limited human disturbance at this elevation.We suggest that both human activity and ecological constraints(i.e.food resources)have considerable effects on elevational use of R.roxellana in the Qinling Mountains.This study highlights the critical roles these factors can play in shaping the vertical distribution of high-altitude primates.This research provides useful insights for habitat-based conservation plans in which human disturbance management and habitat restoration should be prioritized.
基金This study was supported by the Key Program of the National Natural Science Fund(31730104)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31801981)+5 种基金Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB31020302)National Key Program of Research and Development,Ministry of Science and Technology(2016YFC0503200)Innovation Capability Support Program of Shaanxi(2020KJXX-008)Foundation of Shaanxi Academy of Sciences of China(2016K-20,2018K-16-04,2019ZY-JCTJ-06)Key Research and Development Program of Shaanxi Province of China(2018PT-04)One Institute One Brand Foundation of Shaanxi Academy of Sciences(2020k-01).
文摘For socialized animals,such as prinlates,emotions arc the expression of internal states,which may be recognized by others to adjust an in dividual's potential actions(Girard and Bellone 2020).Facial expressions are therefore important signals in communication(e.g.,happy or in pain)and can help individuals understand potential meanings between each other(Dolensek et al.2020).Facial expressions can be expressed and processed freely and are useful in social interactions and bonding(Waller et al.2016).
基金This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [31730104,31770425,32071495,and 31770411]the National Key Program of Research and Development,Ministry of Science and Technology[2016YFC0503200]+1 种基金the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences[XDB31000000]the Natural Science Basic Research Plan in Shaanxi Province of China[2019JM-258].
文摘Age is a key factor affecting sexual selection,as many physical and social traits are age-related.Although studies of primate mate choice often consider particular age-related traits,few consider the collective effects of male age.We tested the hypothesis that female golden snub-nosed monkeys Rhinopithecus roxellana prefer prime aged males(10-15 years)over younger and older males.We examined a habituated,provisioned troop during a 3-year study in the Qinling Mountains,China.Prime age males were more likely to be resident males of 1-male units(OMUs)than males of other ages.Since females are free to transfer between OMUs,the number of females per OMU can be indicative of female preferences.We examined the number of females per OMU,and found that it increased with resident male age up to 7-8 years,and declined after 12 years,such that prime age resident males had more females than other resident males.Females also initiated extra-unit copulations with high-ranking prime age males at significantly higher rates than with other males.Nevertheless,females tended to transfer from OMUs with high-ranking,older resident males to those with low-ranking,younger resident males.Thus,females appear to use different strategies when choosing social mates and extra-unit mates(i.e.,different social contexts).We speculate that females may perceive early signs of aging in males and trade off the benefits and costs of high rank versus male senescence.This study lays the groundwork for future studies that examine possible direct and indirect benefits of such strategies.
基金funded by the Talent Introduction Fund of Tianjin Normal University(5RL115)the Natural Science Foundation of China(31130061,31200293)+1 种基金the Cosmo Oil Eco Card Fund of Japan(2005–2011)supported by JSPS Research Fellowships for Foreign Researchers(P10311).
文摘Inter-group conflicts are common among many group-living animals and involve potentially complex motivations and interactions.Mammals living in multilevel societies offer a good opportunity to study inter-group conflicts.This study is the first to explore the function of sex-specific participation during inter-group conflicts within a multilevel society at the individual level.The Sichuan snub-nosed monkey(Rhinopithecus roxellana)is an endangered seasonal breeding species living in a multilevel society.From Sep 2007 to May 2008 we recorded 290 inter-group conflicts of a free-ranging provisioned band of R.roxellana in the Qinling Mountains of China to investigate the function of individual aggression during inter-group encounters.Our findings show that adult males were the main participants in inter-group conflicts,while females took part in them only occasionally.The male participation rate during the mating season,when adult females were estrous,was significantly higher than that during the non-mating season.Furthermore,males directed their aggression to other males,and directed more intense aggression towards bachelor males than towards other resident males.For both sexes,the participation rate as initiators was higher in the winter than that in the spring;and there was a significant positive correlation between group size and the participation rate as initiators.Our results suggest that inter-group aggression in Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys is linked to both mate defense and resource defense.
