Primates

Primates are of particular interest and importance because: (1) they are essential components (often “keystone species”) of the ecosystems in which they occur, affecting the composition of the vegetation and accounting for a significant portion of the mammalian biomass; (2) they are vital to our understanding of human evolution and human diseases;  (3) they are among the best indicators of the health of ecosystems, and (4) they are among the most important “flagship species” for those sites in which they are found. 

In 2003, Butynski & De Jong started a long term research program with the title: “Eastern Africa Primate Diversity and Conservation Program” which is comprised of several research projects.