Why langurs drink salt water
A study by the German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research in Göttingen and Leipzig Zoo shows the remarkable adaptability of the critically endangered Cat Ba langurs. Despite low genetic diversity, the langurs have retained key genetic traits that help them survive in their isolated environment on Cat Ba Island in Vietnam. One of these remarkable adaptations is the ability to drink salt water (Nature Communications).
The study is dedicated to the genetic challenges faced by the fewer than 100 remaining individuals of this primate species. Due to the dramatic decline of its population, the species suffers from genetic impoverishment, high inbreeding and a potentially increased susceptibility to disease. Nevertheless, analysis of their genetic information shows that genetic diversity has been maintained in functionally important areas of their genetic information. This enables the Cat Ba langurs (Trachypithecus poliocephalus) to continue to cope adequately with changing environmental conditions.
“Their adaptability makes the animals unique. Drinking salt water is an outstanding example of this,” says Liye Zhang, geneticist at the German Primate Center (DPZ) and lead author of the study.
