What condition rarely, if ever, seen in the wild must husbandry actively manage in captive populations?
Answer
Obesity
Obesity is a condition that is noted as being rarely, if ever, observed in wild Western lowland gorillas but represents a significant concern that modern husbandry programs must actively manage within captive populations. This discrepancy arises because the wild diet, consisting primarily of fibrous leaves and stems, is inherently energy-limited, which naturally constrains caloric intake. In contrast, managed diets can sometimes inadvertently lead to higher caloric density, often due to the offering of palatable fruits or treats, necessitating careful management of caloric intake to prevent the development of obesity and associated health issues.
Related Questions
What dietary classification leans heavily on leaves for Western lowland gorillas?Which specific fibrous plant material provides bulk and is easier to digest than tough leaves?Which two plant families frequently feature in the Western lowland gorilla diet?Why do gorillas dedicate more foraging time to fruit when it is in season?What minor animal food sources do Western lowland gorillas occasionally ingest?What measured component ensures complete nutrition in managed care for gorillas?What is the approximate daily food consumption weight for an adult Western lowland gorilla in captivity?How do wild Western lowland gorillas primarily acquire necessary hydration?How is the feeding behavior of the Western lowland gorilla characterized?What condition rarely, if ever, seen in the wild must husbandry actively manage in captive populations?