Abstract

MARTINEZ, J et al. A baseline for the conservation of the Bolivian endemic titi monkeys: Callicebus Olallae and C. Modestus. Rev.Cient.Agro.Amaz. [online]. 2015, n.5, pp. 1-11. ISSN 2307-9606.

Since 1939, Callicebus olallae and C. modestus were considered Bolivian endemic primates. Apart from the original collection localities and descriptions, no additional information existed for more than 60 years. To determine the conservation status of both species, different studies were carried out by the Wildlife Conservation Society since 2002. A close taxonomic relationship was found between both species with reduced population sizes and proximal distribution ranges highlighted the endemism of these primates to the southwestern portion of the Beni Department. Observations of behavior, ranging patterns and diet suggest that high forest fragmentation levels demand most of the adaptive capacity of these species. Forest loss resulting from human activities was identified as the main conservation threat for C. olallae (Endangered) and C. modestus (Endangered). Outreach activities sharing the above information with local people have raised great interest for supporting conservation initiatives, a promising scenario for planning activities aiming to preserve these endemic species and their natural environment. Activities to date generated the first information about the biology and ecology of C. olallae and C. modestus, establishing a baseline to continue actions to conserve an important part of the rich natural patrimony of the Beni Department.

Keywords : amazon primates; Callicebus; endangered species.