Reproduction of the owl monkey (Aotus spp.) in captivity

Area of Science:

• Primatology
• Reproductive Biology
• Laboratory Animal Science

Background:

• Owl monkeys (Aotus sp.) are crucial models in biomedical research.
• Understanding their reproductive performance in captivity is vital for sustained research.
• The Battelle Primate Facility (BPF) maintained a significant colony of owl monkeys.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the reproductive performance of captive owl monkeys.
• To determine the colony's capacity for sustaining research programs.
• To identify factors influencing reproductive success in a controlled laboratory environment.

Main Methods:

• Observation of a captive owl monkey colony at the Battelle Primate Facility (BPF).
• Tracking colony growth through captive breeding and imports.
• Analysis of reproductive success based on pair compatibility, karyotype, and environmental conditions (lighting, heating).

Main Results:

• The BPF owl monkey colony reached a peak size of 730 individuals, encompassing seven karyotypes.
• Successful laboratory breeding can provide sufficient numbers for modest research programs.
• Reproductive success was enhanced by compatible, same-karyotype, and stabilized pairs, though different karyotype pairings were also productive.
• Controlled environmental conditions eliminated seasonal birth peaks.

Conclusions:

• Owl monkeys are capable of successful reproduction in laboratory settings.
• Colony management strategies can ensure a consistent supply for research.
• Environmental controls can decouple reproduction from natural seasonal patterns, allowing for year-round availability.