Diet of Proboscis Monkeys in the Kinabatangan Floodplain
Author Information
Author(s): Thiry Valentine, Boom Arthur F., Stark Danica J., Hardy Olivier J., Beudels-Jamar Roseline C., Vercauteren Drubbel Regine, Alsisto Sylvia, Vercauteren Martine, Goossens Benoit
Primary Institution: Université Libre de Bruxelles
Hypothesis
What is the diet composition of proboscis monkeys in the Kinabatangan Floodplain?
Conclusion
The study identified at least 89 different plant taxa consumed by proboscis monkeys, highlighting the importance of various plant species for their diet.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified 67 plant species through direct observations.
- DNA metabarcoding revealed 100 plant taxa in proboscis monkey feces.
- At least 22 new genera were added to the known diet of proboscis monkeys.
- Feeding behavior varied significantly between wet and dry seasons.
- Direct observations provided higher taxonomic resolution than DNA metabarcoding.
- Proboscis monkeys primarily consumed leaves, with a seasonal increase in fruit consumption.
- DNA metabarcoding allowed for the identification of plant taxa not easily observed.
- The study contributes to conservation strategies for the endangered proboscis monkey.
Takeaway
Proboscis monkeys eat a lot of different plants, and scientists used special methods to find out what they like to eat.
Methodology
The study used direct behavioral observations and DNA metabarcoding of fecal samples to analyze the diet of proboscis monkeys.
Potential Biases
Potential overrepresentation of certain plant species due to the nature of DNA recovery from feces.
Limitations
The DNA metabarcoding method may not accurately reflect the proportions of different plant parts consumed.
Participant Demographics
Proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus) in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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