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Related Concept Videos

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Communication between two animals occurs when one animal transmits an information signal that causes a change in the animal that receives the information. Organisms communicate with one another in a host of different ways. Signals can be auditory, chemical, visual, tactile, or a combination of these. Communication is a critical behavioral adaptation that promotes survival, growth, and reproduction.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Nov 30, 2025

Sampling and Analysis of Animal Scent Signals
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Pheromones: Stink Fights in Lemurs.

Tristram D Wyatt1

  • 1Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, 11a Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3SZ, UK; Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.

Current Biology : CB
|November 17, 2020
PubMed
Summary

Ring-tailed lemurs use scent for communication. A recent study identified disputed candidate molecules potentially acting as male pheromones, advancing primate olfactory communication research.

Area of Science:

  • Primate communication
  • Olfactory signaling
  • Primate behavior

Background:

  • Primates, especially lemurs, are known to communicate using olfactory cues.
  • Despite this, no definitive primate pheromones have been scientifically identified.
  • Understanding chemical communication is crucial for primate social behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate potential male pheromones in ring-tailed lemurs.
  • To identify specific molecules involved in scent-based communication in this primate species.
  • To contribute to the understanding of primate pheromonal signaling.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of scent marking behaviors in ring-tailed lemurs.
  • Chemical analysis of glandular secretions.

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  • Identification of volatile organic compounds.

    • Main Results:

    • Several candidate molecules were identified in male ring-tailed lemur scent marks.
    • These molecules are proposed as potential male pheromones, though their function is disputed.
    • The findings offer a starting point for further investigation into primate pheromones.

    Conclusions:

    • The study presents potential pheromone candidates in ring-tailed lemurs, advancing olfactory communication research.
    • Further research is needed to confirm the pheromonal role of these molecules.
    • This work highlights the complexity of chemical communication in primates.