Nutritional and Health Status of Woolly Monkeys

Abstract

Woolly monkeys (Lagothrix lagotricha and L. flavicauda) are threatened species in the wild and in captivity. Numerous zoological institutions have historically kept Lagothrix lagotricha spp., but only a few of them have succeeded in breeding populations. Therefore the majority of institutions that formerly kept Lagothrix lagotricha are no longer able or willing to do so. Captive populations of the species have frequent health problems, most significantly hypertension and related disorders. Researchers have conducted free-ranging dietary and behavior studies with respect to woolly monkeys, but have established no concrete link between diet or nutrients and captive health problems. The available literature we discuss indicates that researchers need to examine the link further. In addition, it is critical to the survival of the primates to be able to keep breeding populations in captivity owing to increasing natural pressures such as deforestation and hunting. Therefore, better understanding of the captive and free-ranging behavior and health parameters of the species is vital to ensure their survival and to maintain forest health and diversity. Researchers need to conduct large-scale research studies comparing the health and complete diet of individuals in the wild and captivity to resolve health problems facing the species in captivity.

Serum chemistry concentrations of captive woolly monkeys (Lagothrix lagotricha)

“…However, the slightly higher female concentrations may be problematic because diabetic and hypertensive-related birth complications are observed during captivity. Although diabetes and hypertension have also been reported in males, these conditions have historically been more pronounced with pregnancy [Ange-van Heugten et al, 2008]. Interestingly, the middle age group had the highest glucose concentration (6.8 mmol/L vs. 6.0-6.2 mmol/L) although this was not statistically significant.…”

“…Low concentrations of creatinine in serum have been associated with liver disease and low muscle mass [Kamath et al, 2001;Rahn et al, 1999]. There are reported health problems within woolly monkey populations with regard to liver and muscle disorders [especially as related to pregnancy weight gain; Ange-van Heugten et al, 2008;Lanford et al, 1998;Mooney and Lee, 1999].…”

The Woolly Monkey

“…A long-term breeding and exhibition project at the St Louis Zoo has generated a great deal of data on health and behavioral aspects, while dietary requirements have also been studied on several captive groups (White et al 2010, this volume; Ange-van Heugten 2010, this volume; Ange-van Heugten et al 2008). …”

“…In particular, it is known that elevated levels of lipids, sodium, and sugars in human diets can increase the prevalence of type II diabetes and/or hypertension (Lagua and Claudio 2004). These two diseases also are closely related to other conditions reported to negatively affect woolly monkeys, including congestive heart failure, renal failure, reproduction problems, and immunosuppression (Ange-van Heugten et al 2008b;. As with humans, these woolly monkey health conditions are often more pronounced during pregnancy and may result in very large, difficult-to-deliver, infants (Lloyd et al 1995).…”

“…Also, together with Saimiri, Saguinus, and Cebus, they are particularly threatened by illegal trade due to their popularity as pets and, as a consequence, they frequently arrive at zoos and captive centers (Echeverry, personal communication). Unfortunately, woolly monkeys are threatened in captivity as well, since ex situ populations typically sustain high mortality and low breeding success (Debyser 1995;Ange-van Heugten et al 2008). Studies on captive woolly monkeys have suggested that the leading causes of woolly monkey deaths are related to hypertension complications and undetermined factors during the first year of life (Debyser 1995;Ange-van Heugten et al 2008, this volume).…”