Chen, H.-C.; Geissmann, T. & Chen, P.-C. (2004). A survey of the taxonomic status of captive gibbons in Taiwan. The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology 52: 265-269.
Hou-Chun Chen1; Thomas Geissmann2 & Pao-Chung Chen3
1 Taipei Zoo, 30 Sec.
2 Hsin Kuang Road, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Email: chc0316@ms3.hinet.net
2 Anthropological Institute, University Zurich-Irchel, Winterthurerstrasse
190, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
Email: thomas.geissmann@aim.unizh.ch
3 Taipei Zoo, 30 Sec. 2 Hsin Kuang Road, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Key words: Hylobatidae, ex-situ conservation,
systematics, species identification.
Abstract: The gibbons or small apes (Hylobatidae) of South-east Asia include
several highly endangered species. In the 1980s, gibbons were very popular in Taiwan
as pets and were imported into the country in high numbers. Their diversity as well
as the abnormal presence of captive-bred hybrids frequently causes problems in species
identification. Given the importance of taxa identification as a necessary step for
conservation, we conducted a survey of the captive gibbon population in Taiwan. We
applied morphological analysis, DNA analysis, and vocal identification to identify
the numerous gibbon species. Our 2002 survey revealed 83 gibbons of eight species
in Taiwan. Our findings correct the original records in zoos and rescue centers and
will help to prevent further hybridization. The results of this survey will be useful
in establishing breeding programs and for improving ex-situ conservation of gibbon
species in Taiwan. Finally, this study provides a template for similar work on captive
gibbon identification elsewhere.
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