Pathology in the Darajani baboon

Abstract

Abstract The loss of teeth from attrition may limit the life span of free‐ranging Darajani baboons. A high frequency of fractures is presumably the result of falls that oocur in chases or flights. The pattern of broken bones emphasizes the digits, the trunk, the face, and the lower limb. Such injuries affect virtually all individuals who survive to a relatively old age. Arthritic‐like changes in the skeleton frequently occur in the vertebral column and may reduce the baboon's speed and agility in flight. They have remarkable abilities to survive severe wounds, even amputations, as long as such wounds are clean. Numerous diseases and parasites infect the animals and those who survive must cope with repeated infection. Many of these pathogens affect the individual at the same time and each reduces the likelihood of survival. The brief life expectancy of the individual magnifies the genetic contribution of older animals to the group if the individual is of suitable position in dominance and central hierarchy.