Diet and seed dispersal of bearded capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) in Brasilia National Park

Bearded capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) play a crucial role as seed dispersers for the endangered Cerrado biome, significantly contributing to its conservation. Research in Brasília National Park revealed that these primates primarily consume fruits, with their diet comprising 33 plant species from 21 families, including 20% anthropic food. Seeds passed through their digestive system and deposited with feces exhibited enhanced germination rates compared to other treatments, highlighting the importance of primate-mediated seed dispersal. Additionally, they disperse medium- and large-sized seeds that smaller frugivores may overlook, underscoring their vital ecological function in maintaining biodiversity within this threatened ecosystem.

de Albuquerque Teixeira, S., Souza‐Alves, J. P., Bezerra de Melo, R., Henriques Tavares, M. C., & Haugaasen, T. (2024). Diet and seed dispersal of bearded capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) in Brasilia National Park. American Journal of Primatology, 86(9). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajp.23665