About This Project

With some accounts estimating fewer than 2,800 individuals left, the blue-eyed black lemur of Madagascar is one of the most threatened primates in the world. Reports suggest that one of the remaining populations of blue-eyed black lemurs has begun to mate with neighboring black lemurs. This interaction could contribute to the extinction of one or both lemur species. Understanding why this interaction is happening, and what it means for species survival, is essential for their conservation.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

The critically endangered blue-eyed black lemur (Eulemur flavifrons) of Madagascar is one of the most threatened species in the world; it has been included in the Top 25 Most Endangered Primate list since 2008. It is estimated that these lemurs may go extinct in as few as 11 years if habitat destruction doesn't subside. To complicate matters, reports from Manongarivo Reserve suggest that blue-eyed black lemurs are interbreeding, or hybridizing, with more abundant and widespread black lemurs (E. macaco). According to the biological species concept, these lemurs should only mate with members of their own group—that's what makes them distinct species. Then what is allowing this to happen now? This project investigates why this is occurring, and what this means for the survival of the species.

What is the significance of this project?

Hybridization is a rare phenomenon in the primate world; studying this occurrence could provide important information about how species evolve. With this said, hybridization can also have a negative impact on a species, especially one that is struggling to maintain viable population numbers. If blue-eyed black lemurs and black lemurs are mating, we could see an exchange of genes, the permanent loss of species-specific behaviors, and/or the extinction of one or both lemur species! By collecting acoustic, behavioral (social and mating), and genomic data, this project will address the extent and impact that this interaction is having on each species. If hybridization is occurring, we expect to find overlap in these characteristics, confirming that the lines between the species are blurring.

What are the goals of the project?

This project comes at a critical juncture in the conservation of the blue-eyed black lemur. This research will result in: 1) a more thorough understanding of the dynamics occurring at the contact zone, enabling the identification of the next steps needed to conserve these lemurs; 2) a detailed plan on ways to mitigate the threats posed by hybridization; 3) an increased level of new skills and knowledge for the researchers, Malagasy students, and field guides working on this project; 4) a solid working partnership with researchers on the ground in Madagascar; 5) an increased awareness among villagers of the biodiversity and conservation needs of these specific lemurs; and 6) the successful completion of my PhD dissertation.