This project will examine the determinants of dental variation in the Asian Colobinae, a large subfamily of primates not studied in any depth to date. In addition to providing the first comprehensive data set on all the extant Asian species of this subfamily, it will contribute to knowledge of a primate evolutionary radiation, addressing one way in which closely related species coexist. The relationship of dental variation to differing diets and ecologies will be tested, as well as phylogenetic correspondence. Besides being important in its scientific goals, this project will also improve the technical and investigative abilities of an excellent young scientist.
