Chemical communication in Galago crassicaudatus: investigation of the chest gland secretion

Abstract

The volatile properties of the three major components of the chest gland secretion of Galago crassicaudatus were studied. Artificial scents were prepared using these components and were tested under natural conditions at a field site in the Soutpansberg mountains of the Northern Transvaal. In order to establish a natural basis for analysing the communicatory function of the scent mark which results from chest rubbing behaviour, the social structure of the group of G. crassicaudatus at the study site was investigated. The chest gland secretion appears to function as a relatively short lived cue which facilitates communication between individuals found near each other; and a relatively persistant cue which may be used for territorial marking.