Can long tail macaques have twins?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

Long-tailed macaques, scientifically known as Macaca fascicularis, can indeed have twins, although twin births in this species are quite rare. Twin births in non-human primates, including NWMs (New World monkeys), OWMs (Old World monkeys), and apes, are more common in NWMs compared to the other two groups.

To put it in perspective, the occurrence of twin births in NWMs is relatively higher than in OWMs and apes. In fact, twin births account for only 0.06% of total births in long-tailed macaques, as reported by Resuello in 1987. This implies that twin births are not a common phenomenon in long-tailed macaques.

It is interesting to note that the occurrence of twin births in NWMs is much higher compared to OWMs and apes. According to Geissmann in 1989, the occurrence of twin births in OWMs and apes ranges from 0.19% to 0.35%, which is significantly lower compared to the occurrence in NWMs.

The rarity of twin births in long-tailed macaques and other non-human primates can be attributed to various factors. One possible reason could be the physiological limitations and adaptations of these species. It is important to remember that the reproductive biology of primates is complex, and many factors come into play when it comes to the likelihood of twin births.

While the occurrence of twin births in long-tailed macaques is low, it is not entirely impossible. There have been documented cases of twin births in this species, although they are considered rare events. Each case of twin births in long-tailed macaques is unique and adds to our understanding of primate reproductive biology.

Long-tailed macaques can have twins, but the occurrence of twin births in this species is relatively rare. Twin births are more common in NWMs compared to OWMs and apes. The rarity of twin births in long-tailed macaques and other non-human primates can be attributed to various factors, and each case adds valuable insights into primate reproductive biology.