Guwahati, Jan 2: Researchers have documented the first known hybrid offspring between the endangered Phayre’s langur (Trachypithecus phayrei) and the capped langur (Trachypithecus pileatus) in Assam.

The study, led by Biswajit Singh, Nazimur Rahman Talukdar, Amir Sohail Choudhury, and Parthankar Choudhury from the Wildlife Conservation Research Laboratory, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, highlights the importance of further research into the genetics, behaviour, and ecological roles of these hybrid individuals. Scientists emphasize that understanding the implications of hybridization is essential for conservation efforts aimed at protecting both langur species amidst growing threats to their habitats. The study has been published in the Journal of Wildlife Science.

The hybrid langur, identified near Assam University’s Silchar campus, displays a unique blend of features from both parent species. Observations showed that the whiskers, ventral, and tail of the hybrid were a mix of characteristics seen in both langurs. The hybrid’s dorsal fur was a mixture of blackish to ash grey, and its ventrum showed similarities to the orange-yellow hue of the capped langur, yet closer to the creamy white of Phayre’s langur. Such a combination of traits supports the idea of hybridization between the two species.

This hybridization is particularly significant because, while Phayre’s langur and capped langur are known to share habitats, mixed-species troops have not been widely documented. The hybrid observed in Dargakona might be the result of a male capped langur joining a Phayre’s langur troop, a phenomenon linked to habitat fragmentation—one of the main causes of mixed-species troop formation. Previous studies have documented similar mixed-species groups in other regions, such as the Nilgiri langur and Hanuman langur in the Western Ghats and tufted grey langur hybrids in Sri Lanka.

This finding suggests a need for further research into the genetic, behavioural, and ecological aspects of the hybrid language. Experts recommend detailed studies to better understand its genetics and interactions within the mixed troop, which could have important conservation implications. Such research is crucial for understanding how hybridization might impact the survival of both Phayre’s langur and capped langur in light of habitat encroachment and fragmentation in the region.

This rare hybridization in a critical habitat serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics that affect the survival of these langur species. Conservation efforts must focus on preserving their habitats to ensure the long-term survival of this primate while exploring the implications of hybridization in an increasingly fragmented environment.

Read: Assam’s elephant population increases to 5,828, but habitat pressures persist

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