Black Lemur(Eulemur macaco)


MORPHOLOGY:
The black lemur has binocular vision like all of the true lemurs. The hindlimbs are longer than the forelimbs. This is a dimorphic species with the males having a black colored body and black ear tufts, with the females having a brownish colored body, black face, and white ear tufts. The average body mass is around 2.5 kilograms.

RANGE:
This species is found in the west of Madagascar, in the rainforests.

ECOLOGY:
Primarily the black lemur eats leaves, also eating fruits and flowers. Protein is derived from arthropods.

LOCOMOTION:

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR:
Black lemurs form larger groups during the night that serve the purpose as foraging groups, consisting of sizes from 5-15 individuals. Females are the dominant member of the group.

VOCAL COMMUNICATION:
ohn: this nasal sound is used in group cohesion.

cree: this is a high-pitched sound used in territorial calls.

crou: this is used by the black lemur as an alarm call.

scream-whistle: a specialized alarm call used in the presence of a large bird such as the harrier hawk.

OLFACTORY COMMUNICATION:
As with all of the true lemurs, olfactory communication is important for the black lemur.

VISUAL COMMUNICATION:

TACTILE COMMUNICATION:

REPRODUCTION:
This species gives birth to single offspring about once a year.

REFERENCES:
Burton, Frances. 1995. The Multimedia Guide to the Non-human Primates. Prentice-Hall Canada Inc.

Last Updated: October 7, 2003.
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