Geissmann, T. and Hulftegger, A. M. (1994). Olfactory communication in gibbons? In: Roeder, J.J.; Thierry, B.; Anderson, J.R. and Herrenschmidt, N. (eds.), Current primatology, vol. 2: Social development, learning and behaviour (pp. 199-206). Strasbourg: Université Louis Pasteur.
Olfactory communication in gibbons?
T. Geissmann1 and A.-M.
Hulftegger2
1Anthropological Institute, University Zürich-Irchel, Zürich, Switzerland
2Tierspital Zürich-Irchel, Zürich, Switzerland
Key words: Skin glands; sternal glands; gibbons;
Hylobates; histology; olfactory communication; thermoregulation.
Abstract: This report presents a study of the skin glands of virtually all
gibbon species and describes their macroscopic and histological characteristics.
In the siamang (Hylobates syndactylus), the sternal glands are particularly
prominent and produce a strong scent. Distinct sternal glands also occur in H.
agilis, H. hoolock, H. lar, H. moloch, H. muelleri,
and H. pileatus. In gibbons of the concolor group, sternal glands frequently
appear to be less well developed. Specialised skin glands also occur in other regions
of the body. These appear to be especially important in the gibbons of the concolor
group, in which secretions may result in reversible changes in the fur colouration
of adult females. The functions of the specialised skin glands in gibbons are poorly
understood. Although they appear to play a role in olfactory communication, they
are apparently not used for any kind of marking behaviour. Secretory activity is
increased by stress and under elevated temperatures. This suggests functional analogies
to the axillary glands which occur in humans and the African apes.
Site by Thomas Geissmann.
For comments & suggestions, please email to
webmaster@gibbons.de
Gibbon Research Lab. Home: |
![]() |