The role of climate change in shaping species diversity: A regional study in Bioko Island. Equatorial Guinea

The aim of this pilot study is to investigate adaptations to unpredictable environments in nocturnal galagos (Galagidae). Animal species may develop adaptive coping mechanisms to improve fitness in environments with unpredictable changes in climate extremes (e.g. El Ni??o). Gummivory - feeding on the gum and sap of woody plant species - is thought to be an adaptive strategy that may have evolved in response to these sudden unpredictable environmental changes. This research will be conducted on Bioko Island. Equatorial Guinea. Bioko is a biodiversity ???hotspot??? characterized by high species richness and endemic flora and fauna. including 11 primate species. I will collect ecological. behavioral. and genetic data to explore adaptations at both short-term (behavior and distribution) and long-term (genetics and microbiome) levels. Four species of galagids are currently recognized on Bioko with differential reliance on gum: from occasional gum feeders to exclusive gummivorous species. Support from an INTRA grant will allow me to establish a new field site in Western Africa and develop a partnership with the Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program. Additionally. this will position me to apply for extramural support to expand this research and attract students interested in environmental anthropology and conservation.