The Gut Bacterial Community of Wild and Captive Black Capuchin Monkeys (Sapajus Nigritus) in South Brazil Exhibit Environmental Influences

Abstract Black capuchin monkey ( Sapajus nigritus), an endemic species of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil, faces challenges due to habitat loss and fragmentation. As a result, it is classified as near threatened. When the host is exposed to anthropogenic pressures, the gut microbial community can adapt to these stressful situations. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the habitat of black capuchin monkeys and their gut microbiome. Fecal samples were collected from the wild (n=27) and captive (n=7) monkeys, and their bacterial communities were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. The results revealed significant differences in the bacterial community structure between the two populations. Wild monkeys exhibited a higher abundance of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidota, while captive monkeys showed a higher abundance of Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes. Functional prediction analyses highlighted differences in pathways related to xenobiotic degradation between captive and wild groups. Wild monkeys in urban areas showed enrichment in dioxin biodegradation pathways, while those in farming environments exhibited pathways associated with toluene degradation. These findings underscore the gut microbiome's adaptability and unique functional capabilities under different environmental conditions. Furthermore, this study highlighted the gut microbiome and its response to ecological contexts, providing valuable insights into the understanding of black capuchin monkeys and supporting conservation efforts by establishing connections between the microbiota and primate habitat. Further research is required to explore the functional implications of these microbial differences and their potential effects on the health and well-being of black capuchin monkeys in diverse environments.