Age estimation in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) based on mandibular dimensions.

Area of Science:

• Primatology
• Anthropology
• Forensic Science

Background:

• Accurate age estimation in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) is crucial for research and conservation.
• Current methods like epiphyseal union and dental eruption have limitations, including gaps in age coverage and requirements for complete specimens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate a novel technique for estimating age in rhesus macaques using mandibular measurements.
• To highlight the advantages of this new method over existing aging techniques.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new aging technique based on single mandibular measurements or radiographs.
• Analysis of mandibular growth as a continuous indicator for age estimation.
• Application of the technique to incomplete or fragmentary skeletal material.

Main Results:

• The new technique provides age estimates with a prediction error of ±5.08 months for males and ±7.29 months for females.
• This method is quick, inexpensive, and requires only a portion of the mandible.
• Age estimation is possible throughout the growth period without significant gaps.

Conclusions:

• Mandibular measurement offers a reliable, efficient, and versatile method for aging rhesus macaques.
• The technique's applicability to fragmentary remains enhances its utility in paleoanthropological and forensic contexts.
• This approach represents a significant advancement in non-invasive aging methodologies for non-human primates.