Resumen

RIVAS ALARCON, Alisson Mayerli  y  PINCAY CANTOS, María Fernanda. Effects of habitat fragmentation on the behavior and movement of the palliata howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) in Manabí, Ecuador. RCTU [online]. 2025, vol.12, n.2, pp.119-132. ISSN 1390-7697.  https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.26423/wtcd6k35.

The howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) is categorized as Critically Endangered in Ecuador. This classification is linked to habitat fragmentation, mainly caused by agricultural and livestock expansion, which represents one of the most critical threats to the species’ survival. This study was conducted in the communities of Mata de Cacao and Relámpago, in the province of Manabí, with the purpose of evaluating how forest loss and fragmentation influence the behavior of A. palliata. A descriptive approach was applied through direct observations, recording a total of 39 individuals (20 in Relámpago and 19 in Mata de Cacao). Documented behaviors included vocalization, resting, feeding, movement, and play, in relation to the availability of key tree species such as guasmo, cacao, guarumo, and guayacán. The results showed that in more fragmented areas, individuals spend more time moving and reduce their resting periods, reflecting adaptive responses to reduced resources. These findings provide essential inputs for designing ecological corridors and conservation strategies that strengthen the connectivity of remaining forests in the region.

Palabras clave : Animal behavior; group cohesion; primate conservation; use of key trees; ecological connectivity..