Prior facility affects alopecia in adulthood for rhesus macaques

Area of Science:

• Primate research
• Veterinary dermatology
• Animal welfare science

Background:

• Alopecia is a common issue in captive macaques, with higher rates than in wild populations.
• Reported alopecia rates vary significantly across different primate facilities.
• Existing explanations and treatments for alopecia in macaques are often insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of prior housing facilities on alopecia ratings in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta).
• To identify potential factors contributing to persistent alopecia in captive primates.
• To inform evaluations of alopecia treatments and captive environments.

Main Methods:

• Alopecia ratings were assessed for rhesus macaques sourced from five primary suppliers.
• Animals were housed at the Washington National Primate Research Center (WaNPRC).
• Data analysis considered the time elapsed since animals left their prior facilities.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in alopecia ratings were observed based on the animals' prior housing facility.
• These differences persisted even when animals had been housed at WaNPRC for at least 10 months (60% for over 2 years).
• This suggests a lasting 'facility effect' on alopecia.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights a significant 'facility effect' on alopecia in rhesus macaques, independent of current environment.
• Potential contributing factors include long-term alopecia amelioration timelines, early life experiences, and genetics.
• Results caution against assuming immediate environmental changes can resolve all cases of primate alopecia.