A University of Michigan study found that the immune performance of wild capuchin monkeys declines in higher temperatures, particularly affecting younger monkeys. This decline in immune system function was observed after just two weeks of temperatures around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The study, focusing on the immune biomarker neopterin in urine samples, highlighted the vulnerability of young monkeys whose adaptive immune system has not fully developed. While the long-term impacts on health and reproduction remain to be seen, the findings suggest that climate change could have unexpected effects on wild animal populations. The study was conducted in Costa Rica as part of the Capuchinos de Taboga Research Project.
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Warmer temperatures weaken immune systems in wild capuchin monkeys
