Phenotypic plasticity of tufted capuchin monkeys (genus Sapajus) phase 2: Science communication

Abstract

This project aims to investigate the relationship between behavioral plasticity and primate adaptability and resilience to rapidly changing environments. Our model is the neotropical primate genus Sapajus, known as the robust capuchin monkey. We are continuing the research on primate development in three long-term studied populations/species, Sapajus nigritus at Carlos Botelho State Park (PECB), SP, S. libidinosus at Fazenda Boa Vista (FBV), PI, and S. xanthosternos in the UNA Biological Reserve (UNA), BA, and we will include two more populations of each species: S. nigritus in Águas da Prata State Park, SP and in the Urugua-í-Foerster Biological Corridor and in the Yacutinga Reserve, Misiones, Argentina; S. libidinosus in the Brasília National Park, DF and in the Barreirinhas mangrove, MA; S. xanthosternos in the district of Santa Rosa de Lima, MG and in the State Park of Lapa Grande, Montes Claros, MG. A set of nine objectives is being executed to advance the frontiers of knowledge about the evolution of phenotypic plasticity in three ways. First, under the contemporary theoretical perspective of the extended synthesis of evolution, we are expanding the previous project to investigate the contribution of plasticity and genetic diversification to phenotypic diversity. Second, we are investigating whether plasticity affects evolutionary processes and whether the context of accelerated environmental change can increase or reduce plasticity. Third, by investigating the relationship between environmental anthropization and variation in phenotypic plasticity and genetic diversity, we are contributing to understanding resilience. In line with the One Health concept, in addition to understanding how organisms react to anthropic environmental changes, scientists must share their discoveries with society and build, with the local communities, interventions aimed at promoting a healthier environment for all organisms. Therefore, we have begun investigating the human/Sapajus interactions in different locations, working together with local communities that have different involvement with animals to support strategies for the conservation and management of non-human species, including conflict reduction and the promotion of co-existence between human communities and wildlife. The knowledge being produced in this project is embedded in current topics that are of utmost relevance to the general public. By communicating and popularizing the results obtained in our research, we aim to make science more accessible and prevalent in society, and foster the engagement and interest in science among community. It will be essential to have students dedicated exclusively to the development of this goal. JC-I scholarship holders will elaborate and create scientific outreach products and manage the communication channels through which they will be publicized.