- The Sangihe Tarsier (Tarsius sangirensis) is a small primate endemic to the Sangihe Islands of Indonesia, specifically found on Sangihe Island and potentially neighboring smaller islands. This nocturnal primate represents one of several tarsier species found in the Indonesian archipelago.
- Physically, T. sangirensis exhibits the characteristic features of tarsiers, including extraordinarily large eyes adapted for nocturnal vision, elongated ankle bones (tarsals), and a small body size. Adults typically measure around 10-15 centimeters in body length, with a longer tail that helps in balance. Their fur is generally brownish-gray, and like other tarsiers, they possess distinctive finger-like extensions on their feet that aid in gripping branches.
- The species’ most striking feature is its enormous eyes, which are fixed in their sockets and cannot move independently. To compensate for this, the tarsier can rotate its head up to 180 degrees in either direction, allowing it to scan its environment effectively. Their large ears are highly mobile and aid in detecting prey movement.
- T. sangirensis inhabits various forest types on Sangihe Island, including primary and secondary forests, forest edges, and even some disturbed areas with sufficient vegetation cover. They require vertical supports for climbing and typically occupy the lower to middle levels of the forest structure, using branches and vines for locomotion.
- Unlike many other primates, Sangihe Tarsiers are strictly carnivorous, feeding primarily on insects and small vertebrates. They hunt actively during the night, using their large eyes and acute hearing to locate prey. Their hunting technique involves sitting motionless on vertical supports and making precise leaps to capture prey with their hands.
- The species exhibits a social structure centered around small family groups, typically consisting of a mated pair and their offspring. They are territorial, with pairs defending their home ranges through vocalizations and scent marking. Communication between individuals involves various vocalizations, including high-pitched calls that may be important for territorial defense and mate attraction.
- Reproduction in T. sangirensis likely follows patterns similar to other tarsier species, with females giving birth to a single offspring after a gestation period of about six months. The young are relatively well-developed at birth and cling to their mother’s fur. They begin accompanying their mother on foraging trips after several weeks and reach sexual maturity at around 1-2 years of age.
- Conservation concerns for the Sangihe Tarsier are significant due to its extremely restricted range and ongoing habitat loss on Sangihe Island. The conversion of forest habitat to agriculture, particularly coconut plantations, represents a major threat to the species. Additional threats include predation by domestic cats and disturbance from human activities.
- The population status of T. sangirensis is poorly documented, though it is believed to be declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Their restricted island distribution makes them particularly vulnerable to local environmental changes and human activities.
- Research on this species remains limited, with many aspects of their ecology, behavior, and population dynamics poorly understood. Additional studies are needed to better assess their conservation needs and develop effective protection strategies.
- The preservation of T. sangirensis depends critically on protecting remaining forest habitat on Sangihe Island and maintaining connectivity between forest fragments. As an endemic species with a highly restricted range, it represents an important component of Indonesia’s primate diversity and deserves increased conservation attention.
- Conservation efforts should focus on habitat protection, establishing protected areas, and working with local communities to reduce threats to the species. The unique evolutionary history and ecological role of this island-endemic tarsier make it an important focus for both scientific research and conservation initiatives in the region.
