Perception and nocturnal primate face masks

• In Event: Poster Presentation and Judging for: Anthropology; Botany; Conservation Ecology; Environmental Science; Freshwater Science; Geosciences; Mathematics & Computer Science; Neuroscience; Physics & Eng; Science Education; Terrestrial Ecology & Management.
  In Poster Session: Anthropology Poster Session

Abstract

Nocturnal primates exhibit an evolutionary convergence with several other nocturnal mammals in the overall patterning of their facial pelage. This pattern often takes the form of a “mask” marked with black convergent markings on a starkly contrasting monochromatic background. Studies in carnivores suggest that these masks function as anti-predator warning signals. Owl monkeys of the genus Aotus, however, exhibit a “reverse mask” marked by convergent white-on-black patterns. Phylogenetic analyses have shown that adaptation to a nocturnal niche in this genus, separate from the other nocturnal primates, represents a reversal from the diurnal niche occupied by its sister taxa and their most recent common ancestor. The significance of their facial markings, and why these are different from their nocturnal prosimian counterparts, have not been adequately explained. This project applies findings from the extensive neuroscience research in face perception (human and animal) to explore the hypothesis that owl monkeys’ masks have evolved to enhance individual recognition in low-light environments. This is most likely due to the loss of olfaction as a primary source for recognition, more complex cerebral development, and lack of a light-reflecting tapetum lucidum.

Authors

• Cody J Moser, Department of Anthropology, Texas A&M University

• Gül A. Russell, Department of Humanities in Medicine, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University College of Medicine