Biology subjects

Shanee, S.

Publications and source records attributed to Shanee, S..

2 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2025

The genomic landscape of spider monkeys and northern muriquis from a conservation perspective

BackgroundMost populations of spider monkeys (Ateles) and muriquis (Brachyteles), two Neotropical primate genera, are under severe anthropogenic threats. Yet, taxon-wide population-level studies leveraging their degree of endangerment linked to their genetic diversity patterns and demographic history are lacking. To properly address this, there is a need to expand from morphological and genetic marker-based studies. ResultsWe generated high-coverage genome sequencing for 58 individuals sampled across 8 Atelidae species, in the first population-wide study of all extant spider monkey species, in the wild and captivity, alongside northern muriquis (Brachyteles hypoxanthus). Additionally, we present a high-contiguity reference genome for Ateles hybridus. Here, we observe the overall levels of genetic diversity and genetic load of the analyzed populations do not align to their IUCN endangerment category. Moreover, we show that in the wild, genetic load is overall higher compared to the captive populations analyzed. Then, we depict two main trans and cis-Andean sister clades in Ateles, and further structure and dynamics outlined by the Madeira River in the latter clade. Lastly, we find that genes in highly divergent regions between Ateles and B. hypoxanthus are involved in central nervous system development and photorreception. ConclusionsOur study shows i) the lack of concordance between the genetic diversity levels and extinction risk of these populations, suggestive of recent and strong external drivers; ii) increased genetic load in the wild in contrast to effective captive management, indicating mostly past demographic events; iii) structure and dynamics in spider monkeys that agrees with common biogeographical patterns and iv) genetic divergence between Ateles and Brachyteles potentially linked to distinct environmental light levels.

genomics↗

bioRxiv2022

Expanded Distribution and Predicted Suitable Habitat for the Critically Endangered Yellow-tailed Woolly Monkey (Lagothrix flavicauda) in Peru

The Tropical Andes Biodiversity Hotspot holds a remarkable number of species at risk of extinction due to anthropogenic habitat loss, hunting and climate change. One of these species, the Critically Endangered yellow-tailed woolly monkey (Lagothrix flavicauda), was recently sighted in Junin region, 206 kilometres south of its previously known distribution. The range extension, combined with continued habitat loss, calls for a re-evaluation of the species distribution and available suitable habitat. Here, we present novel data from surveys at 53 sites in the regions of Junin, Cerro de Pasco, Ayacucho and Cusco. We encountered L. flavicauda at 9 sites, all in Junin, and the congeneric L. l. tschudii at 20 sites, but never in sympatry. Using these new localities along with all previous geographic localities for the species, we made predictive Species Distribution Models based on Ecological Niche Modelling using a generalized linear model and maximum entropy. Each model incorporated bioclimatic variables, forest cover, vegetation measurements, and elevation as predictor variables. Model evaluation showed >80% accuracy for all measures. Precipitation was the strongest predictor of species presence. Habitat suitability maps illustrate potential corridors for gene flow between the southern and northern populations, although much of this area is inhabited by L. l. tschudii. An analysis of the current protected area (PA) network showed [~]47% of remaining suitable habitat is unprotected. With this, we suggest priority areas for new protected areas or expansions to existing reserves that would conserve potential corridors between L. flavicauda populations. Further surveys and characterization of the distribution in intermediate areas, combined with studies on genetic flow, are still needed to protect this species.

ecology↗