Comprehensive Study On The Chromosome Of Hylobatidae Genus Hylobates and Symphalangus

Abstract

The study was done to investigate the chromosomes treats of Hylobates (agile gibbon) and Symphalangus (siamang). Blood samples were collected from Sumatra (agile gibbons and siamangs) and Kalimantan (agile gibbons). The blood samples then were cultured for chromosome staining. The results showed that the chromosomes of agile gibbons were too sensitive for temperature treatment, and intensive attention must be given to this aspect during handling. Using C-band after DAPI (4’-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) staining techniques, it was found that agile gibbons have a specific chromosome banding pattern, with i (interstitial), t (terminalis), and c (pericentromeric) heterochromatic bands in both (short and long) of the chromosome arms. More intense observations using Fluorescence Insitu Hybridization (FISH) technique, it was also discovered that a Whole Arm Translocation between chromosome 8 and 9 (WAT 8/9) phenomenon occurred in Sumatran, but never in Kalimantan agile gibbons, and this proved to be very useful as a tool to differentiate between Sumatran and Kalimantan species and will give a significant contribution to avoid hybridization caused by missed species identification. Above all, the application of genetic aspects in cases such as chromosome identification in the ex-situ breeding colonies and rehabilitation centers is strongly suggested as the last barrier before releasing captive or confiscated animals into the wild. This program will not only avoid physically reducing animal populations in the natural habitat, but more importantly, to guarantee their genetic purity in their own wild habitat.