Madison Reporter

Karen Strier, a professor of anthropology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, has been studying northern muriqui monkeys for over four decades. Despite an increase in their population since 1982, these endangered primates remain at risk due to habitat disturbances. A recent study published in Ecology highlights this ongoing threat.

Northern muriquis inhabit Brazil's Atlantic Forest and are known for their peaceful nature compared to other primates. The study conducted by Strier and Anthony Ives, a professor of ecology and evolution at UW–Madison, reveals that despite legal protection, the monkeys' mortality rate increased significantly in 2016 and remains high.

Strier and her team meticulously track the behavior, birth rates, death rates, and social relationships of these monkeys. Their data suggest environmental stressors like reduced forest productivity, climate stress, or predation could be contributing to the elevated mortality rate.

The research underscores the value of long-term studies. By 2015, the muriqui population had grown to 356 from about 50 when Strier began her work in 1982. Ives used early data to model future population trends under conditions present in 2015 but could not foresee events like droughts or disease outbreaks affecting growth predictions.

In light of predation and habitat changes as limiting factors for this population's growth, conservationists are gaining insights into necessary actions. Leandro Jerusalinsky from Brazil's National Center for Research and Conservation of Brazilian Primates sees potential in using Strier’s findings to refine conservation strategies.

Strier’s research may also aid predictions on how other muriqui populations might respond to climate change or diseases. As environmental challenges increase with climate change projections indicating a warmer world with food scarcity risks for primates like muriquis, such data becomes crucial.

Jerusalinsky emphasizes the importance of Strier’s work: “Having a person like Karen developing this long-term research and providing these high-quality results is incredible.” He hopes it will guide effective conservation policies aimed at improving habitat management or establishing corridors between isolated populations.