MACACA MULATA (RHESUS MONKEY)

Contents hide

1) Introduction

2) Classification of Macaca Mulata (Rhesus Monkey)

3) Geographical distribution

4) Habit and habitat

5) General Characteristics of Macaca Mulata

6) Ecological Importance

7) Conservation Status

8) Special features

9) Identification

Introduction

The rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is one of the most widely recognized and studied primates in the world. Native to South, Central, and Southeast Asia, this medium-sized monkey is known for its adaptability to diverse habitats, from tropical forests to urban environments. Rhesus macaques have a significant place in ecological systems and scientific research, particularly in medical studies.

Classification of Macaca Mulata (Rhesus Monkey)

Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
Group :- Craniata (Definite head, Cranium with brain present.)
Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
Super Class :- Tetrapoda (Paired limbs, lungs, cornified skin and bony skeleton.)
Class :- Mammalia (Body covered with hairs. Females have mammary glands.)
Order :- Primates (Head turns easily on neck.)
Family :- Cercopithecidae
Genus :- Macaca
Species : Mulata

Geographical distribution

Old world monkeys found in India, China, Vietnam and Asia.

Habit and habitat

Arboreal (tree living), terrestrial, diurnal and social

General Characteristics of Macaca Mulata

Commonly called as Rhesus monkey.
Body divided into head, trunk, tail and abdomen.
Head contains, mouth, eye and nostril.
Cranium enlarged, nostrils ringed by bare skin.
Protrusible fascial muscles permit emotional expression.
Body covered with brownish or golden hairs.
internal cheek pouched for storing the food.
Buttocks contain two dried tuberosities with exposed calloused skin.
Stomach single.
External ear reduced. Forelimbs and hind limbs well developed.

Ecological Importance

Seed Dispersal: Rhesus macaques consume a variety of fruits and assist in seed dispersal, which contributes to forest regeneration and plant biodiversity.
Control of Invertebrate Populations: By feeding on insects and other invertebrates, they help control pest populations, maintaining ecological balance.
Prey for Predators: As part of the food web, rhesus macaques are prey for larger predators like leopards, eagles, and pythons, supporting the ecosystem’s trophic dynamics.
Ecosystem Engineers: Their activities, such as digging for roots or interacting with plants, contribute to soil aeration and nutrient cycling.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List Status: Rhesus macaques are listed as Least Concern due to their large population and adaptability. However, specific populations face localized threats.
Threats to Survival:
- Habitat Loss: Deforestation and urbanization have reduced their natural habitats.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: In urban areas, their interactions with humans often lead to conflicts.
- Illegal Wildlife Trade: Rhesus macaques are sometimes captured for the exotic pet trade or traditional medicine.
Conservation Efforts:
- Protected Areas: They are found in several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries across their range.
- Research and Monitoring: Their populations are monitored as part of broader conservation programs.
- Community Awareness: Efforts to educate communities about coexisting with macaques help reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Special features

Monkeys are famous for carricaturing. Trained monkey’s dance provides amusement to children. Rh blood factor was first discovered in monkeys which has great significance in blood transfusions.
Monkeys exhibit parental care. Other monkeys are Squirrel monkey (Saimiri), Spider monkey (Ateles), Marmoset (Callithrix) and Langur (Presbystis).
Highly Adaptive: Rhesus macaques thrive in diverse environments, including forests, grasslands, mountains, and urban areas, showcasing their exceptional adaptability.
Complex Social Structure: They live in hierarchical troops with intricate social dynamics, including grooming and alliances, which are essential for group cohesion.
Scientific Importance: Macaca mulatta has been instrumental in medical and psychological research. They were pivotal in developing the polio vaccine and are used in neuroscience, behavioral studies, and genetics.
Facial Expressions and Communication: Known for their expressive faces, they communicate through a wide range of vocalizations and gestures, reflecting their intelligence and social complexity.
Long Lifespan: They can live up to 25 years in the wild, with even longer lifespans in captivity, making them a valuable species for longitudinal studies.