Lorisidae

Nycticebus pygmaeus 004

Lorisidae is a family of primates within the suborder Strepsirrhini, which is one of the main divisions of primates. The family Lorisidae encompasses the slender lorises, slow lorises, and their close relatives. Members of this family are characterized by their nocturnal habits, slow movement, and a strong reliance on their sense of smell. They are found in the tropical and subtropical forests of India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa.

Characteristics

Lorisids are small to medium-sized primates, ranging from about 18 to 40 cm in length, and have a tail that can be either short or almost absent. Their fur is thick and soft, usually in shades of brown or grey. They have large, forward-facing eyes that provide them with excellent night vision, which is crucial for their nocturnal lifestyle. Their hands and feet are adapted for gripping, with opposable thumbs and big toes, allowing them to move slowly but securely through the trees.

One of the most distinctive features of some lorisids, particularly the slow lorises, is their toxic bite. They have a gland on their arm that secretes a toxin, which they can combine with their saliva to deliver a potentially harmful bite. This unique adaptation is primarily used for defense against predators.

Habitat and Distribution

Lorisidae members are found in dense tropical forests, both in lowland and mountainous regions. They prefer a habitat with a thick canopy, which provides cover and a rich source of food such as fruits, gums, insects, and small animals. Their distribution includes parts of South and Southeast Asia, specifically in countries like India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia, as well as parts of Central and West Africa.

Behavior and Ecology

Lorisids are primarily solitary animals, with individuals usually living and foraging alone. They are nocturnal, spending most of the day sleeping in the dense foliage or in tree hollows, coming out at night to feed. Their slow and deliberate movements help them remain undetected by predators and prey alike. Despite their slow locomotion, they are capable of quick bursts of speed when necessary.

Their diet is varied and includes insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and tree gums. Some species, particularly the slow lorises, have a highly specialized diet that can include toxic insects and other small animals.

Conservation Status

Many species within the Lorisidae family are threatened by habitat destruction, hunting, and the wildlife trade. Deforestation and the conversion of land for agriculture and human settlement have significantly reduced their natural habitats. Additionally, slow lorises are often captured and sold as pets, partly because of their appealing appearance and the misconception that they make good pets. This illegal trade, along with habitat loss, has led to significant declines in their populations.

Conservation efforts for Lorisidae include habitat protection, legal protection from hunting and trade, and research into their ecology and behavior to inform conservation strategies. Rehabilitation and release programs also exist for individuals that have been confiscated from the illegal pet trade.

Classification

The family Lorisidae is divided into two genera:

• Nycticebus - Slow lorises
• Loris - Slender lorises

These genera encompass several species, each with unique characteristics and adaptations to their specific environments.

See Also

• Primate
• Nocturnality
• Wildlife trade
• Conservation biology