Infodoc : Sciences, Techniques et Culture

We observed socioecological patterns in a black colobus population in Gabon (Makandé). We compared the results with those for two others populations (Lopé, Gabon and Cameroon)in order to estimate the extent of specific variability in population structure and ranging behavior and to identify ecological factors influencing interpopulation differences. All groups had a multimale structure. Groups cohesion is ensured through grooming patterns and body - contact between individuals. Spatial proximity and grooming networks among individuals show three sub-groups: adults males, immatures and adults females with act as a link between other age classes. Female role in group cohesion and allomothering suggest a matrilineal or female-bonded society. However relationships amongst males and males[...]

We observed socioecological patterns in a black colobus population in Gabon (Makandé). We compared the results with those for two others populations (Lopé, Gabon and Cameroon)in order to estimate the extent of specific variability in population structure and ranging behavior and to identify ecological factors influencing interpopulation differences. All groups had a multimale structure. Groups cohesion is ensured through grooming patterns and body - contact between individuals. Spatial proximity and grooming networks among individuals show three sub-groups: adults males, immatures and adults females with act as a link between other age classes. Female role in group cohesion and allomothering suggest a matrilineal or female-bonded society. However relationships amongst males and males and females emigrations suggest a patrilineal society. Sub-groups migration make the social organization original and recall the fussion - fission model. C. satanas were mainly seed eaters and ranging patterns veried according to the staple food consumed.
At Makandé, group home ranges were much larger than at other sites, the ranging patterns were seminomadic and this population had the lowest density. This is correlated with vegetation composition. This colobus population appears limited by both recurring food shortage in the dry season and episodic periods of seed shortage resulting from irregular fruiting of the dominant family Caesalpiniaceae. Socioecological and morpho-anatomical feature of C. satanas emphasize its key position in the plylogeny of african colobines and suggest that this species could be the nearest form of the common ancestor of the colobine group.