Comparative Ecology and Behaviour of Eastern Potto Perodicticus ibeanus and Central Potto P. Edwardsi in Angola, Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda

Abstract

Comparative behavioural research reveals both intra-and inter-species diversity among primates. Few long-term behavioural studies have been conducted on African nocturnal primates. Here we describe and compare behavioural and ecological observations on two species of pottos (Perodicticus ibeanus and P. edwardsi) across ten sites. We observed a total of 51 P. edwardsi and 28 P. ibeanus. We recorded all 21 postures within an established lorisid ethogram, as well as 42 of 50 behaviours. Eating, locomotion, freezing, resting and sniffing were the most common behaviours. We recorded behaviours not previously described for perodicticines, including bark chewing and unique vocalisations. Three species of pottos are now recognised, with potentially more species to be revealed within this cryptic and nocturnal genus. Although there are similarities among potto species, we show that unique ecological adaptations and behaviours may further elucidate their diversity.

Behaviour of Pottos and Angwantibos

“…Pottos have been described as exhibiting a dispersed single-male/multi-female social structure (Dixson, 1995), as well as a dispersed single-male/single-female social structure with the possibility of monogamous pairing (O'Mara et al, 2012;Pimley et al, 2005b). Both Pimley et al (2005b) and Luhrs et al (2018) found that spatial proximity (<20 m) between individuals of P. edwardsi was common. Pimley et al (2005b) hypothesised that the high rate of gregariousness in P. edwardsi in Mount Kupe, Cameroon related to patches of high-quality fruit trees and the associated insects.…”

“…During these mother-juvenile observations, there were repeated instances of allogrooming, sniffing, licking, rubbing, clasping and general contact. Luhrs et al (2018) also observed the juvenile attempting to cling both ventrally and dorsally to its mother, despite being nearly equivalent to her in size. If clinging was rejected, the juvenile potto followed the mother closely as she foraged, occasionally breaking off and exploring surrounding habitat.…”

“…Pimley et al (2005b) hypothesised that the high rate of gregariousness in P. edwardsi in Mount Kupe, Cameroon related to patches of high-quality fruit trees and the associated insects. Luhrs et al (2018) hypothesised that anthropogenic activity with associated increase in patches of fruits and insects may facilitate increased social behaviour. As of 2019, angwantibos have been little studied.…”

“…Jewell and Oates (1969a) describe angwantibos in captivity as readily interacting and sharing favourable sleeping sites within the enclosure. Like many strepsirrhines, both pottos and angwantibos rely heavily on olfactory communication through both urine and glandular secretions (Luhrs et al, 2018;Nekaris, 2013;Oates, 1984;Pimley, 2003;Pimley et al, 2005b). Thus, much of their social interaction is conducted through indirect means.…”

“…Pottos at this age continue to attempt to cling to their mother or may follow them closely behind. Luhrs et al (2018) reported observations of a juvenile eastern potto (P. ibeanus) and its mother in Kibale National Park, Uganda. During these mother-juvenile observations, there were repeated instances of allogrooming, sniffing, licking, rubbing, clasping and general contact.…”