New research holds hope for lemurs

New genetic evidence holds hope for the ring-tailed lemur, despite continued habitat disturbance and a growing illegal pet trade. The ring-tailed lemur, one of the most endangered mammals on the planet, can be bought on the beaches of Madagascar for five dollars. With more than 28,000 captured and sold in that country since 2010, the illegal sale of lemurs (of many different species) is a growing problem but UVic anthropology PhD candidate Tara Clarke—who will defend her thesis on this topic this month—says there is hope.

“My research examined the impact of habitat fragmentation and isolation on the genetic health of three populations of ring-tailed lemurs within the central highlands of Madagascar: Sakaviro, Anja Reserve, and Tsaranoro Valley and, as of now, the results show a moderate level of genetic diversity,” says Clarke. Research has shown that lemur populations with greater levels of genetic diversity are more likely to adapt to environmental changes, disease exposure, and ultimately increase their chance for long-term viability.

Clarke leaves for the Lemur Rescue Centre in southwestern Madagascar on March 23 where she will work with colleague and UVic alumna Dr. Marni LaFleur (MSc ’08, Interdisciplinary), founder and director of Lemur Love, Inc. and a partner of Lemur Conservation Network, on the care of confiscated captive lemurs as well as wild lemur research.

Follow Clarke on Twitter @Lemurgrl and her fundraising efforts at http://www.gofundme.com/taraloveslemurs.

Media advisory: photos available upon request.

-- 30 --