This study identifies populations currently classified as Allen's galago (
Galago alleni) at ten locations in Gabon, Cameroon and Bioko Island. Morphological diversity was evident both within and between populations.
Attention to the loud calls revealed three distinct vocal profiles which are consistent within biogeographical regions. This
work is based on the Recognition Concept of Species which refers to a Specific Mate Recognition System. Galagos rely less
on visual signals than diurnal primates and recognise each other principally by means of auditory and olfactory signals. Galagos
possess repertoires of loud calls relating to contact and alarm which are thought to be species-specific. Other studies of
nocturnal prosimians (galagos, tarsiers) have demonstrated that the unique loud call repertoires are reliable indicators of
species boundaries; whereas characters such as body size and pelage coloration are highly variable, even within populations.
The vocal data in this study provide evidence of at least three acoustic forms of galago within the Allen's group which are
predicted to represent three distinct species: the Allen's form on Bioko Island and south-west Cameroon, the Gabon form in
southern Cameroon and northern Gabon and the Makandé form in Gabon south of the Ogooué river. Some populations may be vulnerable
to extinction due to limited distributions and habitat destruction.
Allen's galagos Taxonomy Vocal profile Biogeography
Electronic Publication