| dc.description.abstract | Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis; LTMs), also known as crab eating macaques, are widespread in Southeast Asia and exhibit distinct dietary
patterns in captivity and the wild. Captive LTMs, often fed commercial monkey
chow and cultivated fruits, are prone to health issues like obesity and diarrhea due
to dietary and habitat changes. In contrast, wild LTMs consume a diverse, natural
diet that supports a healthier gut microbiome. This research aims to explore the
relationship between different diets and gut microbiota profiles of LTMs in two
locations: the Dramaga Captive Breeding Facility and Tinjil Island.
The study was involving feeding treatment only for LTMs in Dramaga
Captive Breeding Facility, then fecal sample collection from LTMs in both the
Dramaga Captive Breeding Facility and Tinjil Island. Molecular activities were
performed to extract DNA, followed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and
bioinformatic analyses to identify and compare the gut microbiota composition.
Captive LTMs exhibited higher gut microbiota diversity than semi-wild LTM.
The results showed that Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria were
dominant in the gut microbial communities of LTMs from both environments,
with significant variations at the genera levels.
The findings highlight significant differences in gut microbiota between
wild and captive LTMs, influenced primarily by their diets. Wild LTM had a
higher presence of Proteobacteria, particularly the genus Succinivibrio, associated
with the digestion of high-fiber diets typical of their natural food sources. In
contrast, captive LTMs, especially LTM in individual cage, exhibited higher
Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio, which are often linked to carbohydrate-rich diets
and potential obesity. Captive LTM in the group cage showed a slightly more
balanced gut microbiota, likely due to a more varied diet and greater physical
activity.
The study emphasizes the need for high-fiber food supplementation in
captive LTM diets to maintain gut health and prevent metabolic disorders. The
distinct differences in gut microbiota composition between wild and captive
LTMs underscore the importance of dietary management in maintaining a healthy
gut microbiota balance and overall health in captive LTMs. This research provides
valuable insights into the gut microbiota of LTMs in different environments,
underscoring the significant impact of diet on their microbial composition and
health.
The results suggest that more comprehensive dietary strategies should be
implemented for captive LTMs to mimic their natural diet as closely as possible.
Future research should increase the number of animals studied and integrate
comprehensive assessments of LTM behavior, physiological parameters, and
microbiota composition for a more holistic understanding of their health
dynamics. This approach would offer a broader perspective on how diet and
environment shape the gut microbiota and overall health of LTMs, ultimately contributing to improved welfare and management practices for these primates in
captivity. | |
