Seasonality, body condition, and timing of reproduction inPropithecus verreauxi verreauxi in the Kirindy Forest

• DOI: 10.1002/ajp.20187
• Publication Date: 2005-11-16T23:54:26Z
• Authors: R.J. Lewis; P.M. Kappeler
• Keywords: Seasonality

Mammals that live in seasonal environments may adjust their reproductive cycles to cope with fluctuations food availability. Because lemurs Madagascar experience highly variation availability, we examined the effects of fluctuating availability on body condition and reproduction one larger living species, Verreaux's sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi verreauxi), Kirindy Forest western Madagascar. Seven years demographic data were combined an intensive study 25 individuals over course 18 months. In contrast other populations sifaka, females found have greater mass than males. Both male female exhibited significant losses fat during dry season. Females more likely give birth successfully wean infant when they had higher mating They mated periods high declining gave lean season, then timed mid/late lactation period increasing Thus, conclude follow "classic" strategy (sensu van Schaik Noordwijk [Journal Zoology (London) 206:533–549, 1985]). Am. J. Primatol. 63:347–364, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.