A STUDY OF PELAGE COLOR AND GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION IN ALOUATTA BELZEBUL (PRIMATES: CEBIDAE)

Abstract

The taxonomy and distribution of Alouatta belzebul are reviewed using 208 specimens available in five Brazilian collections.  Subspecific differences based on geographic variation of pelage color patterns are studied. Analysis of geographic distribution and frequency of ocorrence of the five main patterns of pelage color enabled the authors to distinguish six distinct distribution areas. The four subspecies recognized in these six areas are: Alouatta belzebul belzebul, A. b. discolor, A. b. nigerrima and A. b. ululata.