Total Pageviews

Showing posts with label monkey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label monkey. Show all posts

Wednesday, 16 March 2016

ANDi the Monkey


ANDi was the first ever genetically modified monkey. He was given the name ANDi because it's backwards for inserted DNA. Whilst he was still an unfertilised egg, he was given a simple marker gene which can be easily identified within his genetic blueprint. The idea being, that we can then have laboratory animals carrying genes associated with specific medical issues.


The Scientist's goal was to show that a foreign gene could be inserted into a primate's chromosome to produce a functional protein. They chose this gene in particular because it emits a fluorescent green glow easily seen under a microscope. They then took tissue samples from ANDi's cheek, hair and umbilical cord. These samples confirmed the presence of the gene - but they could see no green protein. This could be for a variety of reasons, some as small as the quantity of the protein could be too small. They also say that some genetically modified animals don't start producing the foreign protein until after they're a year old.


Other than that, it looks as if he's perfectly normal, happy, healthy, playing with other monkeys as he should - enjoying monkey life!

Tuesday, 22 September 2015

Bonobo Monkey



Bonobo Monkeys aren't just your average monkey, they're one of the closest living relatives monkey-wise to humans. Surprisingly, they share more than 98% of our DNA. They're unbelievably complex, demonstrating emotional intelligence and sensitivity. These amazing primates are found in only one country, the Democratic Republic of Congo in the heart of the Congo Basin, the second largest rain forest in the world. Traditionally Bonobos are thought of as the 'Make Love not War' primates. They're peaceful and have a reputation for being docile creatures - very human like! They're also very healthy, fruit makes up half their diet, a diet supplemented by insects and larvae. The Bonobos are also one of the most vocal primates, their communication is complex, sounds mixed with complex hand gestures. Bonobos are also very social creatures, they're always found in groups of varying sizes. Communities of up to 100 bonobos split into groups to search for food during the day and then return to sleep in the safety of each others company at night. Much like many other animals, sexual activity plays a huge part of their society, they use it to bond and resolve conflicts.
Bonobos aren't just amazing they're also pretty cute too!