Using Primates in Captivity: Research, Conservation, and Education

Nonhuman primates (henceforth, primates) are among the most extensively studied animal species on the planet. In this chapter I provide a brief overview of the reasons why primatology is a popular and thriving science, why primates are valuable research subjects, the scientific disciplines in which they are used, and the species and numbers involved. Globally, an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 primates are used in research every year, the majority (an estimated two-thirds) being long-tailed and rhesus macaques used mainly for pharmaceutical development, neuroscience, and infectious disease studies. I give examples of what primates may experience as part of their involvement in regulated and unregulated scientific procedures and outline how the associated ethical and welfare issues are typically addressed. Although primate research projects are conducted in a variety of settings, special attention is given in this chapter to laboratory- and zoo-based research. The role of zoos in primate conservation and education is also discussed. I conclude with some broad principles for good practice in the design, conduct, and reporting of primate research, aimed principally at students and early career scientists. Adoption of high scientific and ethical standards is important for continued funding and public support for primate research, and for garnering maximum value from it.