Habitat separation of semifree-ranging Lemur catta and Lemur fulvus

Abstract

Habitat use of two semifree-ranging groups of lemurs, Lemur catta and Lemur fulvus, was studied in relation to abiotic, floristic, and structural characteristics of their enclosure. L. catta was very flexible in the use of the habitat and showed a tendency for random utilization. But this species reacted quickly to changes of the abiotic environment. L. fulvus preferred to stay in areas with dense vegetation but good lateral visibility and close to the food plants. Abiotic factors such as solar radiation and ambient temperature influenced L. fulvus to a lesser extent than L. catta. According to these results L. catta could be considered to be adapted to variable environments where it is advantageous to react quickly to changes of abiotic factors. The conservative habitat use and the limited response to abiotic factors of L. fulvus might reflect adaptations of a species living in a stable environment. If these interpretations prove correct, then this study provides another example of animals born and raised in captivity that have retained habitat preferences of their wild conspecifics.