Primates karyological diagnosis and management programs applications.

BACKGROUND

Captive primates are often maintained in groups without geographic origin or genetic heritage information. This could lead to an incorrect assignment of species, which could result in an inadequate management of the colonies.

METHODS

We present a cytogenetic protocol adapted to be successfully used in an accurate taxonomic diagnosis of non-human primates (Platyrrhini), including lymphocyte culture, G- and C-banding, meiosis, and fluorescent in situ hybridization technique (FISH).

RESULTS

Using classical cytogenetic diagnosis, the species status was determined in 541 Platyrrhini individuals. Of these, 99 were previously erroneously sexed or assigned to a different species using only morphological characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The cytogenetic results highlight the relevance of the genetic characterization of primates both in captivity and in the wild. These techniques had been used in our research group for more than 30 years in different research projects, not only for characterizing hundreds of primates, but also different for topics regarding primates genomes and evolution.