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Blood groups of Barbary apes (Macaca sylvanus)
Folia Primatologica; International Journal of Primatology
|January 1, 1981
Summary
Barbary macaques share human-like A and H blood group substances and M-like antigens. Their erythrocytes also exhibit simian-type specificities, with the Drh blood group system showing polymorphism.
Area of Science:
- Primatology
- Immunogenetics
- Anthropology
Background:
- Erythrocyte antigens in non-human primates are crucial for understanding evolutionary relationships.
- Previous studies have identified various blood group systems in macaque species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the blood group antigens of Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus).
- To compare these findings with other macaque species and discuss taxonomic implications.
Main Methods:
- Hemagglutination inhibition tests were performed on Barbary macaque erythrocytes.
- Antisera for human-type and simian-type red cell specificities were utilized.
- Cross-reactivity with rhesus and baboon antisera was assessed.
Main Results:
- All 32 Barbary macaques were secretors of A and H blood group substances.
- An M-like agglutinogen was detected on their red cells; other human-type specificities were negative.
- Simian-type specificities were identified, with the Drh blood group system found to be polymorphic.
Conclusions:
- Barbary macaques possess a unique combination of human-like and simian-type erythrocyte antigens.
- The polymorphism in the Drh blood group system offers potential for further genetic studies.
- Blood grouping data can contribute to the taxonomic classification of macaque species.