Feeding patterns in a small-bodied nocturnal folivore (Avahi laniger) and the influence of leaf chemistry: a preliminary study.

We present data on feeding patterns in Avahi laniger and compare these data to temporal variations in leaf chemistry. Because A. laniger is one of the smallest folivorous primates and has a monogastric stomach, we hypothesized that this lemur would display behavioural adaptations to a leaf-based diet by scheduling feeding times when leaves were of highest quality. Data were collected from May to August 2004 at the Vatoharanana site in Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar. A. laniger fed during different time periods despite leaf carbohydrate and protein concentrations exhibiting little variation throughout the night. Although tannin concentrations exhibited temporal fluctuations, they did not covary with A. laniger feeding times. We suggest that A. laniger feeding times cannot be explained entirely by variations in leaf chemistry. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.