C-banding patterns and phenotypic characteristics in individuals of Sapajus (Primates: Platyrrhini) and its application to management in captivity

摘要

The classification of capuchin monkeys represents one of the greatest taxonomical controversies within primates. The high variability presented by the species, observed mainly in coat coloration, makes the classification of captive animals difficult. The objective of the present study was to analyze the patterns of constitutive heterochromatin in 26 individuals of capuchin monkeys kept in a screening center of wild animals in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, and correlate them with phenotypic characteristics, in order to improve the management in captivity. Metaphasic chromosomes were obtained using lymphocyte culture and the constitutive heterochromatic regions were stained by using the C-banding technique. All individuals presented 2n = 54. C-banding was observed on chromosomes 4, 6, 11, 12, 13, 17, and 19. Two types of C-banding staining in chromosome pair 11 were identified: a large terminal heterochromatic block occupying more than 60% of the chromosome and a small intercalar heterochromatic block. In addition to these patterns, we observed a polymorphism characterized by the complete deletion of the large heterochromatic block in the same chromosome pair in heterozygosis in two cases. The association of the results with phenotypic characteristics allowed us to organize distinct groups of individuals that can be helpful to house them in separate enclosures. Although additional cytogenetic techniques, like G-banding, are necessary for species diagnosis, we recommend the use of this methodology as a preliminary analysis in conservationist institutions housing Sapajus in captivity.