Karyological diagnosis of Cebus (Primates, Platyrrhini) in captivity: Detection of hybrids and management program applications

Genetic data are very important for conservation programs in wild population as well as in captive conditions. Primates in zoos or breeding centers are often maintained in groups without geographic origin or genetic heritage information. These lead to the incorrect assignment of species and introduce an artificial reproductive barrier, which in turn constitutes inadequate management of the colonies. A karyological analysis of specimens from a Primate Reproduction Center, considered as Cebus apella (Platyrrhini), was performed. Cell cultures were conducted from peripheral blood samples following standard cytogenetic methods. A fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) procedure was applied in mitotic metaphases using two probes: A specific probe of the extracentromeric heterochromatin (He+) of Cebus, and a human chromosome 21 probe. The latter was chosen due to the known homeology with the euchromatic region limiting with 11qHe+ of Cebus. The species status was determined for at least half of the animals and identified a hybrid specimen using this combined FISH protocol. This procedure is an accurate diagnostic methodology for taxonomic determinations and, therefore can be used for management of reproduction in colonies.