L-Tryptophan and Correlates of Self-Injurious Behavior in Small-Eared Bushbabies (Otolemur garnettii)
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-1-2009
Department
Psychology
Abstract
Self-injurious behavior (SIB) among captive primates is a recurring problem for those who manage such facilities. Its prevalence highlights the need for research evaluating the effectiveness of potential treatment approaches. In the present study, 4 wk of dietary supplementation with L-tryptophan (100 mg daily) was evaluated for the treatment of self-inflicted wounds in 22 small-eared bushbabies, a prosimian primate, with a history of SIB. The treatment significantly reduced stereotypy and was associated with a reduction in wound area and severity. In terms of physiologic measures, preexisting high levels of cortisol were reduced in bushbabies with SIB, whereas serotonin concentrations were increased after 4 wk of treatment. Results indicate that L-tryptophan as a dietary supplement may be a viable adjunct to standard husbandry procedures for animals exhibiting maladaptive behaviors such as stereotypy and SIB.
Publication Title
Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science
Volume
48
Issue
2
First Page
185
Last Page
191
Recommended Citation
Watson, S. L.,
McCoy, J. G.,
Fontenot, M. B.,
Hanbury, D. B.,
Ward, C. P.
(2009). L-Tryptophan and Correlates of Self-Injurious Behavior in Small-Eared Bushbabies (Otolemur garnettii). Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, 48(2), 185-191.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/1196