Question

The zoological name of lion-tailed macaque is-
A. Macaca Rhesus
B. Macaca silenus
C. Macaca mulatto
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: The lion-tailed macaques are known as “bearded monkeys,” or singalika or “lion-like” in India. Indeed, they have a beautiful silvery white mane with silky black fur on their body and their black face remains hairless. The tip of their tail ends up with a pointed tuft of hair similar to that of lions, which can be seen more prominent in males than females.

Complete answer:
They possess a long snout with big large nostrils. The males have impressive long and very sharp canines that they show off in order to discourage other males from challenging them. Their tongue is about 9 cm long. Their eyes are a hazelnut shade and highlighted by delicately drawn black eyelids. Infants are born with lighter faces earlier and their manes do not grow until they are about 2 months old.
Lion-tailed macaques are extremely important members for seed dispersal. By transporting fruit in their cheek pouches and carrying them long distances from where they were gathered, they either drop or defecate seeds far from the mother plant and contribute to the survival and propagation of many plant species in their environment.

Hence, the correct option is option B i.e. Macaca silenus.

Additional Information:
The Macaque lives in groups of about ten and twenty individuals where one dominant male takes responsibility for leading the entire troop. Young males leave at the onset of maturity and join bachelor groups, while young females form strong bonds with their mother and generally remain within their natal group. Females give birth every 3-4 years and the species can live up to 20 years of age in the wild and about 30 years in captivity.

Note: The Lion-tailed Macaque is known to be omnivorous, eating mainly fruit, insects, eggs as well as small animals on occasion. It sometimes even uses special cheek pouches to store food while foraging.