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Process of gravidity in female western lowland gorilla Gorilla gorilla gorilla reared in human care
Kocmánek, Lukáš ; Masopustová, Renata (advisor) ; Dokoupilová, Adéla (referee)
Taxonomic system is currently open and evolves based on new findings in genetics. There are currently two recognized species of gorillas (Gorilla gorilla and Gorilla beringei). Each of these two species consists of two subspecies. Gorilla gorilla gorilla is on the Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN) classified as Critically Endangered. The main threats to the population of this subspecies are poaching and Ebola.
Gorillas are long-lived, slowly reproducing primates with significant sexual dimorphism. Gorilla diet is predominantly folivoric. Western gorillas include in their diet fruits, if available. The social system is polygynous with one dominant male who mates with all the females in his group.
Eastern gorillas usually form larger social groups than western gorillas. Differences in reproduction between these species are minimal. Generally, the reproduction of western gorillas is slower. Eastern gorilla infants, unlike western gorillas, face a high risk of infanticide.
Wild western lowland gorillas were almost not observed, so there is very little known about the course of reproduction in the wild. Almost all knowledge about their reproduction is based on observings in captivity. Reproduction of gorillas is influenced by many factors, among which are hormonal effects, the composition of the group and its hierarchy, nutrition and more. Historically western lowlan gorillas kept in captivity faced low birth rate. Available data on pregnancy in gorillas are insufficient. Further research is needed.
The level of maternal care is one of the key factors crucial for the survival of infants. Maternal behavior is influenced by stress, which may result in inappropriate maternal behavior or possibly its complete absence. Diseases threatening pregnant gorillas are not adequately described. Among the main causes of complications described are inadequate nutrition and stress.
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