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The giant aye-aye Daubentonia robusta
1Duke Primate Center, Durham, NC 27510.
Folia Primatologica; International Journal of Primatology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
A giant aye-aye species, Daubentonia robusta, existed in Madagascar with massive bones, weighing significantly more than the common aye-aye. Its survival in a xeric environment with specialized teeth and hands remains a scientific mystery.
Area of Science:
- Paleontology
- Zoology
- Madagascar Biodiversity
Background:
- Subfossils of a giant aye-aye, Daubentonia robusta, have been discovered in southern and southwestern Madagascar.
- These findings are outside the current range of the living aye-aye.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physical characteristics of Daubentonia robusta.
- To explore the ecological implications of its existence in a xeric environment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of subfossil limb bones to estimate body mass.
- Comparison of dental and manual specializations with the living aye-aye.
Main Results:
- Daubentonia robusta possessed massive, robust limb bones.
- Estimated body weight was 2.5-5 times greater than the living aye-aye.
- The species shared dental and manual specializations with the extant aye-aye.
Conclusions:
- The discovery of Daubentonia robusta challenges previous understandings of aye-aye distribution and evolution.
- A significant ecological question remains regarding how this large species, with its specialized adaptations, thrived in Madagascar's xeric regions.