Studying Primates: How to Design, Conduct and Report Primatological Research

Primatology is a diverse field that draws on theory and methods from many fields to study over 500 species of primates. Researchers collect data in various environments, and there are no standard protocols. This guide provides practical advice for developing research questions, forming testable hypotheses, designing and conducting studies, and reporting results with a focus on research integrity and ethics.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 360 pages
\n Publication date: 26 September 2019
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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Primatology is a multidisciplinary field that draws on theory and methods from a wide range of disciplines, including anatomy, anthropology, biology, ecology, medicine, psychology, veterinary sciences, and zoology. With over 500 species of primates, ranging from tiny mouse lemurs to massive gorillas, primatologists collect data in diverse environments such as the field, research facilities, museums, sanctuaries, zoos, and from literature. Due to the variability in research interests, study animals, and research sites, there are no standard protocols for studying primates. However, asking good questions and designing appropriate studies to answer them is crucial for producing high-quality science. This accessible guide is designed for graduate students and post-doctoral researchers who want to develop a research question, formulate testable hypotheses and predictions, design and conduct a project, and report the results. The focus of the book is on research integrity and ethics throughout, and it provides practical advice on overcoming common difficulties researchers face.

The study of primates, which encompasses the examination of all non-human primates, is a fascinating and complex field that draws on a wide range of scientific disciplines. Primatologists, researchers who specialize in the study of primates, employ a variety of theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches to better understand the behavior, ecology, and evolution of these fascinating creatures.

One of the key areas of study in primatology is anatomy, which involves the detailed examination of the physical structures and physiological systems of primates. Primatologists use advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans and MRI scans, to study the internal anatomy of primates, allowing them to identify and understand the complex relationships between different organs and systems. This knowledge is essential for understanding how primates adapt to their environments and for developing new treatments for human diseases that affect primates, such as HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Another important area of study in primatology is ecology, which involves the study of the relationships between primates and their environments. Primatologists use a variety of methods to study these relationships, including field observations, ecological surveys, and experimental studies. By understanding the ecological requirements of primates, primatologists can better predict how populations of primates will respond to environmental changes, such as deforestation and climate change. This knowledge is essential for developing effective conservation strategies and for protecting the habitats of primates and other wildlife.

Behavioral science is another important area of study in primatology, which involves the observation and analysis of the behavior of primates. Primatologists use a variety of methods to study behavior, including direct observation, video recording, and genetic analysis. By understanding the behavior of primates, primatologists can better understand the social structures, communication systems, and cognitive abilities of these creatures. This knowledge is essential for developing new models of animal behavior and for understanding the evolution of behavior.

Evolutionary biology is another important area of study in primatology, which involves the study of the evolutionary relationships between different species of primates. Primatologists use a variety of methods to study evolutionary relationships, including phylogenetic analysis, genetic analysis, and fossil analysis. By understanding the evolutionary history of primates, primatologists can better understand the origins.

Finally, primatology also plays an important role
role in medicine and veterinary science. Primates, including humans, are a valuable source of research for developing new treatments for human diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and cancer. Primatologists use a variety of methods to study these diseases, including clinical trials, observational studies, and experimental studies. By understanding the biology and behavior of primates, primatologists can better develop new treatments and therapies for these diseases.

In conclusion, primatology is a multidisciplinary field that draws on theory and methods from a wide range of scientific disciplines, including anatomy, anthropology, biology, ecology, medicine, psychology, veterinary sciences, and zoology. Primatologists use a variety of methods to study the behavior, ecology, and evolution of primates, and their work has significant implications for understanding the natural world and for developing new treatments for human diseases.

\n Weight: 526g\n
Dimension: 227 x 151 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781108434270\n \n