In the new paper published in Ecology and Evolution, researchers describe how they were observing small groups of critically endangered diademed sifaka lemurs at Betampona Strict Nature Reserve when the predator struck. That means Lemurs are under threat because one vulnerable species stalks another.
According to research conducted by Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Antananarivo in Madagascar, the complexity of this situation can increase notably when predation takes place in a habitat that is isolated or of poor quality.
| Date | April 19, 2024 |
| Source | Washington University in St. Louis |
| Summary | Researchers investigating critically endangered lemurs in Madagascar were faced with this challenging reality when they observed attacks on lemurs perpetrated by another vulnerable species known as a fosa. |
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About Lemurs:
In the heart of Madagascar’s lush forests dwells a majestic creature, the diademed sifaka lemur (Propithecus diadema).
The diademed sifaka stands out among its lemur relatives with its distinctive black and white fur, reminiscent of a regal crown adorning its head. Their long limbs and slender bodies allow them to gracefully traverse the treetops with unparalleled agility. Their expressive amber-colored eyes seem to reflect the mysteries of the forest they call home.
Diademed sifakas are highly social animals, living in close-knit family groups led by a dominant male and female. Their diet primarily consists of leaves, fruits, flowers, and occasionally seeds, providing them with the essential nutrients needed to thrive in their forest habitat.
See The Picture of Lemur Here
About Fossas:
With sleek bodies and elongated tails, Fosas (also known as Fossas, Crytoprocta ferox) exhibit numerous feline characteristics. They excel in climbing and are often likened to miniature cougars, although they belong to the weasel family.
The fosa is classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, facing a significant risk of extinction, much like nearly all of its lemur prey. Fossas also feed on other small creatures such as birds and rodents.
Fossas are adept hunters, employing stealth in their approach. Researchers have primarily deduced the dietary habits of fosas by analyzing bones and other remnants found in their excrement.
See The Picture of Fossa Here
Research News: One Vulnerable Species Stalks Another
| Research | Observation | Conclusion |
Researchers were conducting their daily behavioral observations when they came across a very unusual sight, a predation attempt by a fossa, which is the biggest predator in Madagascar. While there are other smaller carnivores in Madagascar, none possess the size necessary to prey on adult diademed sifakas, as they rank among the largest lemurs. The number of predators capable of such an act is quite limited. | They observed that a female diademed sifaka, which we were tracking following the initial attack, didn’t flee a great distance. Instead, she remained motionless and alert, keeping a watchful eye on the fosa. Furthermore, the researchers recounted additional instances over a span of 19 months of observation when fosas seemed to stalk lemurs but were unsuccessful in capturing them as prey. | The combination of predation, low reproductive rates, and the possibility of high inbreeding within the lemur population at Betampona may significantly influence the species’ survival in this area. |
Through their research, they’ve been able to uncover issues such as inbreeding and other factors that likely contribute to the diademed sifaka population’s inability to thrive at Betampona, and Fossa too, needs conservation efforts because Lemurs are under threat when one vulnerable species stalks another.
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FAQ:
1. What is threatened or vulnerable species?
It indicates that it faces a high risk of becoming endangered in the foreseeable future if conservation measures are not implemented.
2. What is endangered species?
When a species is classified as “endangered,” it means that it is at a very high risk of becoming extinct in the wild if urgent conservation actions are not taken.
3. What is extinct species?
When a species is considered “extinct,” it means that there are no living individuals of that species remaining anywhere on Earth, or extinct species are those that have completely disappeared from the wild and no longer exist.