In collaboration with Adela Cebeiro and Ukophula Field Project, this project investigates whether differences in tool-use behaviours are due to species differences.

Within this same sanctuary, some of these capuchins habitually crack nuts, while others never do. Although there are some phenotypic differences, the origins and species identities of these lineages are currently unknown.

To determine whether stone tool-use behahvioural differences are due to species differences, we will use microsatellite markers to genetically identify individuals. First, we will establish a reference dataset of Sapajus species. We will then compare this reference dataset with genetic data obtained from fecal samples collected from individuals in the sanctuary. This will allow us to assign individuals to species and identify potential hybrids, providing insight into the relationship between tool-use behaviour and underlying genetics.