What are the various common names used to refer to Semnopithecus entellus?

The species Semnopithecus entellus is commonly known by several names, including the northern plains gray langur, sacred langur, Bengal sacred langur, and Hanuman langur. These names reflect its geographical distribution, cultural significance, and common associations.

To which family and order does the northern plains gray langur belong?

The northern plains gray langur is classified within the order Primates and the family Cercopithecidae, which encompasses the Old World monkeys. This classification places it among a diverse group of primates found across Africa and Asia.

Can you detail the scientific classification of the northern plains gray langur?

The scientific classification of the northern plains gray langur is as follows: Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Mammalia, Order: Primates, Suborder: Haplorhini, Infraorder: Simiiformes, Family: Cercopithecidae, Genus: Semnopithecus, and Species: Semnopithecus entellus. This hierarchical system helps scientists categorize and understand its evolutionary relationships.

What was the previous classification of the southern plains gray langur, and what is its current taxonomic status?

The southern plains gray langur was formerly classified as a subspecies of Semnopithecus entellus, known as S. entellus dussumieri. It was later regarded as a separate species, S. dussumieri, but this taxon is now considered invalid. Most specimens previously identified as S. dussumieri are now recognized as falling within the revised range of Semnopithecus entellus.

Describe the physical appearance of adult northern plains gray langurs, including fur color and facial features.

Adult northern plains gray langurs typically have light-colored fur, with darker fur concentrated on their backs and limbs. Their faces, hands, and feet are characteristically black. This coloration provides a distinctive appearance within their habitat.

How does the appearance of infant northern plains gray langurs differ from that of adults?

Infant northern plains gray langurs are born with brown fur, which contrasts with the lighter, often darker-backed fur of the adults. This change in coloration as they mature is a common developmental trait in many primate species.

What are the typical body and tail lengths for an adult northern plains gray langur?

The body length of an adult northern plains gray langur, excluding the tail, ranges from 45.1 cm to 78.4 cm (17.8 to 30.9 inches). Their tails are significantly longer, measuring between 80.3 cm and 111.8 cm (31.6 to 44.0 inches).

How do adult males and females of the northern plains gray langur differ in terms of weight?

Adult males are generally heavier than females, weighing between 16.9 kg and 19.5 kg (37 to 43 lb). Adult females typically weigh between 9.5 kg and 16.1 kg (21 to 35 lb), indicating a degree of sexual dimorphism in size.

What is the geographical range of the northern plains gray langur within India?

The northern plains gray langur's range covers a substantial part of India, extending south of the Himalayas. Its distribution reaches southwards to the Tapti River and the Krishna River.

Is there any evidence of the northern plains gray langur being introduced outside of India, and if so, where?

Yes, it is believed that the northern plains gray langur may have been introduced to western Bangladesh. This introduction is thought to have occurred on the banks of the Jalangi River, possibly by Hindu pilgrims.

What types of natural environments does the northern plains gray langur inhabit?

The natural habitats for the northern plains gray langur are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical dry shrublands. These environments provide the necessary resources and cover for the species.

How do females and males differ in their grooming behavior within the species?

Females of the northern plains gray langur engage in grooming behavior, tending to members of both sexes. In contrast, males of the species do not typically groom other individuals.

What are the different social group compositions observed in northern plains gray langurs?

Northern plains gray langurs can be found in various group structures, including groups with multiple males and females, groups with a single male and multiple females, and groups consisting of multiple males without females. Additionally, males can also live solitarily.

Which social group structure is most commonly observed among northern plains gray langurs?

The most commonly observed social group structure for the northern plains gray langur is the single male group, where one male lives with multiple females. This social organization is prevalent within the species.

What is the maximum group size reported for northern plains gray langurs?

Groups of northern plains gray langurs can be quite large, with sizes reported to exceed 100 individuals. This indicates a capacity for significant social aggregation.

What typically happens to males and females when they reach maturity regarding their natal group?

Upon reaching maturity, male northern plains gray langurs typically emigrate from their birth group to join or form new groups. Conversely, females usually remain within their natal group throughout their lives.

What is the typical dominance hierarchy observed between young adult females and older females within a group?

Within social groups, young adult females are typically dominant over older females. This suggests a social structure where age does not solely determine dominance among females.

What behavior might a new male exhibit when taking over a group, and under what condition is this less common?

When a new male takes over a group, it may engage in infanticide, killing infants fathered by the previous male or males. However, this behavior is less common if the takeover process occurs gradually over several months.

What other food sources, besides fruits and leaves, does the northern plains gray langur consume?

In addition to fruits and leaves, the northern plains gray langur also consumes seeds, flowers, buds, bark, and insects, including caterpillars. This varied diet allows them to adapt to different food availability throughout the year.

How do humans influence the diet of some northern plains gray langur groups?

Some groups of northern plains gray langurs receive a substantial portion of their diet from food provided by humans, such as offerings at temples, and by raiding crops. This human interaction can significantly alter their natural feeding patterns.

When do groups with abundant, year-round food sources typically breed, and how does this compare to forest-dwelling groups?

Groups that have access to abundant food year-round, such as those provisioned by temples or able to raid crops consistently, tend to breed throughout the entire year. In contrast, forest-dwelling groups typically give birth during a more restricted period, usually between December and May.

What is the approximate gestation period for the northern plains gray langur?

The gestation period for the northern plains gray langur is approximately 200 days. This is the duration from conception to birth.

What is alloparenting in the context of northern plains gray langurs, and how long does it typically last for infants?

Alloparenting refers to care provided to infants by individuals other than the mother. For the northern plains gray langur, females other than the mother often care for the infant during its first month of life.

When does weaning typically occur, and at what age do males reach maturity?

Weaning for northern plains gray langur infants usually occurs around one year of age. Males typically reach sexual maturity at approximately six to seven years old.

With which other animal species does the northern plains gray langur often associate, and what are the suggested mutual benefits?

The northern plains gray langur frequently associates with chital deer. This association is beneficial as the langurs' vigilance from trees helps the chital detect predators, while the chital's acute senses of smell and hearing aid the langurs.

What interspecies interactions have been observed between northern plains gray langurs and rhesus macaques?

Northern plains gray langurs have been observed engaging in grooming sessions with rhesus macaques. This indicates a level of social interaction between these two primate species.

What is the conservation status of the northern plains gray langur according to the IUCN Red List?

The northern plains gray langur is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This designation suggests that, globally, the species is not currently facing an immediate threat of extinction, though localized threats exist.

What is the primary factor threatening the northern plains gray langur population?

The primary threat identified for the northern plains gray langur is habitat loss. This refers to the degradation or destruction of its natural forest and shrubland environments.

How does the cultural significance of the northern plains gray langur in Hinduism influence its population and distribution?

The northern plains gray langur is considered sacred by the Hindu religion. This reverence contributes to its large population size within India and its presence even in urban areas, as people are less likely to harm or displace them.

What are several specific threats, beyond habitat loss, that endanger the northern plains gray langur population?

In addition to habitat loss, the northern plains gray langur faces threats such as road kill, attacks by domestic dogs, forest fires, and diseases transmitted from domestic animals. Humans also sometimes hunt them for food or kill them to prevent crop raiding.

In which Indian states is the northern plains gray langur particularly vulnerable to hunting or being killed for crop protection?

The northern plains gray langur is sometimes hunted for food or killed by humans to prevent it from raiding crops in the states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

How are captive gray langurs utilized in Delhi, and why?

In Delhi, captive gray langurs are employed to deter rhesus macaques. The presence of the gray langurs helps to scare away the rhesus macaques, which are known to steal from and sometimes attack people in the city.

What is the connection between the grey langur and the Hindu deity Hanuman in Bengal art?

In Bengal art, particularly from the late 19th century, the anthropomorphized version of the native grey langur species has been used as the basis for depicting the deity Hanuman. This contrasts with depictions in other regions that might be based on the rhesus macaque.

What does the CITES listing for the northern plains gray langur indicate about its conservation status?

The northern plains gray langur is listed under CITES Appendix I. This appendix includes species threatened with extinction, whose trade is prohibited, indicating a need for strict regulation and protection.

What are some of the genera listed under the 'Langur group' in the provided taxonomic navbox?

The 'Langur group' in the provided taxonomic navbox includes several genera, such as Semnopithecus (Gray langurs), Trachypithecus (various leaf monkeys), and Presbytis (Surilis). It also includes genera like Pygathrix (Doucs), Rhinopithecus (Snub-nosed monkeys), Nasalis (Proboscis monkey), and Simias (Pig-tailed langur) under the 'Odd-nosed group'.

What are some of the species listed under the Semnopithecus genus in the provided taxonomic information?

The Semnopithecus genus, also known as Gray langurs, includes species such as the Nepal gray langur (S. schistaceus), Kashmir gray langur (S. ajax), Tarai gray langur (S. hector), the Northern plains gray langur (S. entellus), Black-footed gray langur (S. hypoleucos), Tufted gray langur (S. priam), Purple-faced langur (S. vetulus), and Nilgiri langur (S. johnii).

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control databases' section found at the end of the article?

The 'Authority control databases' section provides links to various international databases and catalogs that identify and track the species. These include identifiers from Wikidata, Wikispecies, ADW, GBIF, IUCN, and others, serving as a standardized way to reference and find information about the species across different scientific resources.

Northern Plains Gray Langur Wiki: The Hanuman Langur: An Ecological and Cultural Study

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Introduction

Species Overview

The Northern Plains Gray Langur, scientifically designated as Semnopithecus entellus, is a prominent species of primate belonging to the Old World monkey family, Cercopithecidae. It is also widely recognized by its common names: the Sacred Langur, Bengal Sacred Langur, and most famously, the Hanuman Langur, a name derived from its veneration in Hinduism.

Taxonomy and Classification

This species is part of the genus Semnopithecus, which encompasses the various Indian langurs. Historically, there has been some taxonomic debate, with the Southern Plains Gray Langur previously classified as a subspecies. However, current understanding places Semnopithecus entellus as a distinct species within this genus, reflecting its unique evolutionary path and characteristics.

Global Presence

The natural range of the Northern Plains Gray Langur is extensive, primarily covering the Indian subcontinent. It is found across India, extending south of the Himalayas and reaching as far south as the Tapti and Krishna Rivers. Its presence has also been noted in western Bangladesh, possibly introduced by human activity.

Taxonomic Context

Genus and Family

The Northern Plains Gray Langur is classified within the family Cercopithecidae, commonly known as Old World monkeys. It resides in the genus Semnopithecus, which is characterized by the Indian langurs. This classification highlights its evolutionary relationship with other langur species found across Asia.

The hierarchical classification is as follows:

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Primates
Suborder: Haplorhini
Infraorder: Simiiformes
Family: Cercopithecidae
Genus: Semnopithecus
Species: S. entellus

Taxonomic History

The classification of langurs has seen revisions over time. The Southern Plains Gray Langur, formerly considered a subspecies (S. entellus dussumieri), is now generally regarded as an invalid taxon. Most specimens previously assigned to this subspecies are now understood to fall within the revised range of Semnopithecus entellus, underscoring the dynamic nature of biological classification based on ongoing research.

Physical Characteristics

Adult Morphology

Adult Northern Plains Gray Langurs typically exhibit a light-colored pelage, often appearing grayish or creamy. Darker fur is usually present on their backs and limbs, providing a subtle contrast. A distinctive feature is their black facial mask, ears, hands, and feet, which stands out against their lighter body fur.

Juvenile Appearance

In contrast to adults, infants are born with a brown or darker coat. This coloration likely serves as camouflage or may play a role in social recognition within the troop during their early development stages.

Size and Weight Metrics

These primates are of moderate size. Body length, excluding the tail, ranges from approximately 45.1 cm to 78.4 cm. Their tails are notably long, measuring between 80.3 cm and 111.8 cm. Adult males are considerably heavier, weighing between 16.9 kg and 19.5 kg, while adult females are lighter, typically ranging from 9.5 kg to 16.1 kg.

Geographic Distribution & Habitat

Native Range

The primary distribution of the Northern Plains Gray Langur spans a significant portion of India, south of the Himalayan mountain range. Its range extends southward, encompassing areas up to the Tapti and Krishna Rivers, covering diverse geographical terrains within the subcontinent.

Preferred Habitats

These langurs demonstrate adaptability, inhabiting various environments. Their preferred natural habitats include subtropical and tropical dry forests, as well as subtropical and tropical dry shrublands. This ecological flexibility allows them to thrive in a range of conditions.

Presence in Bangladesh

There is evidence suggesting the introduction of this species to western Bangladesh, particularly along the banks of the Jalangi River. This introduction is believed to be linked to the activities of Hindu pilgrims, highlighting the historical interaction between humans and this species.

Behavioral Ecology

Daily Activity and Locomotion

The Northern Plains Gray Langur is diurnal, meaning it is active during daylight hours. It exhibits a dual lifestyle, being both terrestrial (ground-dwelling) and arboreal (tree-dwelling), adept at navigating both forest canopies and terrestrial landscapes.

Social Structures

These langurs exhibit diverse social groupings. They can be found in multi-male, multi-female troops; one-male, multi-female units; or groups consisting of multiple males without females. Solitary males are also observed. Single-male groups are the most prevalent social configuration. Troop sizes can be substantial, sometimes exceeding 100 individuals.

Diet and Foraging

The diet of the Northern Plains Gray Langur is predominantly herbivorous, consisting mainly of fruits and leaves. Their ability to subsist on mature leaves is particularly crucial, enabling their survival during the dry seasons when more palatable food sources are scarce. They also consume seeds, flowers, buds, bark, and occasionally insects, including caterpillars.

Ecological Interactions

Interspecies Relationships

The Northern Plains Gray Langur often forms associations with other species, notably the Chital deer. Both species appear to benefit from this relationship; the langurs' vigilance from trees may alert deer to predators, while the deer's keen senses of smell and hearing can provide early warnings to the langurs. Grooming interactions between langurs and Rhesus macaques have also been documented.

Habitat Adaptability

Their ecological success is partly due to their adaptability to various habitats, including urban environments. In India, their sacred status often leads to them being provisioned by humans, particularly at temples, and they are known to raid agricultural crops, integrating them closely with human settlements.

Reproduction and Development

Groups with consistent access to food, such as those near temples or agricultural areas, may breed year-round. Forest-dwelling groups typically give birth between December and May. The gestation period lasts approximately 200 days. A unique aspect of their social behavior is alloparenting, where females other than the mother care for infants during the first month. Weaning occurs around one year of age, with males reaching sexual maturity at about six to seven years.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List Assessment

The Northern Plains Gray Langur is currently listed as 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This classification reflects its relatively widespread distribution and large population size across its native range.

Threats and Challenges

Despite its 'Least Concern' status, the species faces several threats. Habitat loss remains a primary concern. Additionally, langurs are vulnerable to road accidents, attacks by domestic dogs, forest fires, and diseases contracted from domestic animals. Human-wildlife conflict also arises when langurs raid crops, sometimes leading to retaliatory killing.

CITES Appendix

The species is also listed under Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). This designation signifies that international trade in this species is prohibited, reflecting a global effort to protect it from exploitation.

Cultural Significance

Reverence in Hinduism

The Northern Plains Gray Langur holds a special place in Indian culture, particularly within Hinduism, where it is considered sacred. Its association with the deity Hanuman, the monkey god known for his strength, devotion, and loyalty, contributes significantly to its revered status. This reverence often leads to large populations thriving even within urban areas and near religious sites.

Artistic Depictions

The langur's likeness is frequently incorporated into traditional Indian art. Notably, in Bengal, artistic representations of Hanuman, especially from the late 19th century, are often based on the anthropomorphic features of the gray langur, distinguishing them from depictions based on the Rhesus macaque found in other regions.

Role in Urban Environments

In cities like Delhi, langurs are sometimes employed as a method to manage populations of Rhesus macaques, which can be disruptive and aggressive towards humans. The presence of gray langurs can deter macaques, demonstrating a unique human-animal interaction driven by cultural respect and practical necessity.

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References

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This is not professional zoological or conservation advice. The information provided herein should not substitute consultation with qualified wildlife biologists, ecologists, or conservation experts. Always consult with professionals for specific guidance related to wildlife management, conservation efforts, or ecological studies.

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The Hanuman Langur

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Introduction 🐒

🌿 Species Overview

📜 Taxonomy and Classification

🌍 Global Presence

Taxonomic Context 🧬

🌳 Genus and Family

🤔 Taxonomic History

Physical Characteristics 📏

🎨 Adult Morphology

👶 Juvenile Appearance

⚖️ Size and Weight Metrics

Geographic Distribution & Habitat 🗺️

📍 Native Range

🏞️ Preferred Habitats

🇧🇩 Presence in Bangladesh

Behavioral Ecology 🌳

☀️ Daily Activity and Locomotion

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Social Structures

🍎 Diet and Foraging

Ecological Interactions 🍃

🤝 Interspecies Relationships

🏡 Habitat Adaptability

👶 Reproduction and Development

Conservation Status 🛡️

⚖️ IUCN Red List Assessment

⚠️ Threats and Challenges

🐅 CITES Appendix

Cultural Significance 🕉️

🙏 Reverence in Hinduism

🎨 Artistic Depictions

🏙️ Role in Urban Environments

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📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Species Overview

Taxonomy and Classification

Global Presence

Taxonomic Context

Genus and Family

Taxonomic History

Physical Characteristics

Adult Morphology

Juvenile Appearance

Size and Weight Metrics

Geographic Distribution & Habitat

Native Range

Preferred Habitats

Presence in Bangladesh

Behavioral Ecology

Daily Activity and Locomotion

Social Structures

Diet and Foraging

Ecological Interactions

Interspecies Relationships

Habitat Adaptability

Reproduction and Development

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List Assessment

Threats and Challenges

CITES Appendix

Cultural Significance

Reverence in Hinduism

Artistic Depictions

Role in Urban Environments

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice