Mixed-species associations and attempted mating suggest hybridization between purple-faced and tufted gray langurs of Sri Lanka

Hybridization is increasingly recognized as an important mechanism of evolutionary change in the order Primates. Here, we present the first observational data supporting natural hybridization between the critically endangered purple-faced langur (Semnopithecus vetulus philbricki) and the threatened tufted gray langur (Semnopithecus priam thersites) in Kaludiyapokuna Forest Reserve in Sri Lanka. In one case study, we observed a long-term (> 1 year) mixed-species group consisting of one adult tufted gray langur male coexisting with seven adult purple-faced females. Although copulations were not observed, two infants were conceived during the male’s tenure, and the coat color of one of these infants transitioned into that intermediate between those of the two langur species. The tufted gray langur male was also aggressive toward extra-group males of both species, as well as towards purple-faced juveniles within his group. However, we never witnessed the male exhibiting aggression towards the infants conceived during his tenure. In a second case study, a female purple-faced langur visited and sexually solicited a tufted gray langur male in a known study group of this species over the course of 2 days, in what resembled a sexual consortship. Taken together, the observed mixed-species association and attempted interspecific mating suggest that hybridization is very likely in these sympatric species. Genetic data are needed to confirm and determine the extent of hybridization in the dry zone of Sri Lanka where purple-faced langurs live in sympatry with tufted gray langurs.